Sun Downers: Skin needs its UV protective coating even more so in the heat of summer

Applying sunscreen whenever you step out, especially in summer, goes deeper than preventing unsightly and painful sunburn. It guards against long-term skin problems. With every minute spent in the sun, our skin absorbs UV rays that will eventually compromise the quality of our skin cells. UV rays, to state the more obvious effect, make the skin older by reducing elastin and collagen levels. This leads to wrinkles, fine lines, rough texture, dark spots and other issues down the road. And naturally, all of these things are much more noticeable on our faces.

Hence, it is crucial that we apply and reapply sunscreen throughout the day. Taking skin sensitivity and general skin type into account is also essential when selecting a protective formula, especially when deciding between a chemical sunscreen that absorbs and releases UV radiation and a physical sunscreen that reflects it. While that can sound like a lot to keep in mind as you head out of the door, our handy round-up of the best of the best sunscreens, and the levels of SPF (to counteract UVB rays) and PA (anti-UVA rays) they contain, will help steer you along a complexion-pristine path.

EviDenS de Beauté – The Total Shield

EviDenS de Beauté takes heed of the adage ‘prevention is better than cure’ with its high-protection primer The Total Shield SPF 50 PA++++ Anti-Pollution. Creating an impenetrable veil above your skincare serums and creams, this non-greasy gel offers the optimum defence against UV rays and environmental aggressors to slow the ageing process. Thanks to its clear matte finish, it can even be applied over makeup throughout the day for extended protection.

Givenchy – Le Soin Noir Fluid UV Protection

Givenchy ensures you are always protected with Le Soin Noir Fluid UV Protection SPF 50+ PA++++. Formulated with marine extract for an illuminating effect, the lightweight texture of this sunscreen melts into your skin and forms a shield against photo-ageing and external aggressors. A younger-looking and revitalised complexion has never been easier to achieve, so make sure you include this step in your morning routine.

La Mer – The Broad Spectrum U V Protecting Fluid

With La Mer’s SPF 50 UV Protecting Fluid, you can treat your skin to the sun’s golden glow without worrying about its damaging effects. The luxuriously light composition hydrates, calms and nourishes while preventing discolouration and shielding your skin from ultraviolet radiation damage.

La Prairie – Cellular Swiss UV Protection Veil

Cellular Swiss UV Protection Veil SPF 50 PA++++ is a lightweight protection and treatment product in one. Designed by La Prairie to be used over your moisturiser, this powerful veil offers daily protection against exposure to UVA and UVB rays and the environment. It truly is the perfect sunscreen for daily sun protection.

RéVive – Soleil Superiéur Sunscreen

A lightweight transparent cream from RéVive, Soleil Superiéur SPF 50 Sunscreen PA++++ aids with UV filter protection. Applying it before makeup is ideal since the luxuriously smooth consistency works to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles while also penetrating the skin deeply without leaving a greasy coating.

Rodial – SPF 50 Drops

In Rodial’s world, daily defence is essential to a stellar skincare ritual – that’s why SPF 50 Drops makes the perfect final step to a considered routine. Silky and weightless, the butterfly bush-infused formula protects from harmful UVA and UVB radiation, while bluelight filter technology works to shield skin from collagen degeneration and loss of elasticity. Meanwhile, an effective hydration system combines hyaluronic acid and vitamin E to ensure a nourished, replenished and protected complexion.

Sarah Chapman – Skinesis Skin Insurance Invisible

With a smooth second-skin feel and no white cast, Sarah Chapman’s invisible Skin Insurance with SPF 50 is ideal for all skin types and offers excellent protection from infrared, thermal and ultraviolet ageing. The formula, featuring Photosomes-V, uses visible light energy to help repair damage and boost UV resistance.

Sisley – Sunleÿa G.E. Age Minimising Global Sun Care

In addition to preventing wrinkles, brown spots, dryness and loss of firmness, Sunleÿa G.E. Age Minimising Global Sun Care SFP 30 PA+++ also leaves the skin with a radiant, long-lasting tan. While Sisley’s blend of painstakingly created and incredibly advanced solar filters provides enhanced protection against UVA and UVB radiation, a novel age-minimising strategy and combination of potent active substances help prevent photo-induced ageing. Skin is smooth and moisturised after using this shea butter-enriched product.

Ultra Violette – Daydream Screen

Tinted Veil Daydream Screen SPF 50 Tinted Veil from Ultra Violette makes a powerful multipurpose addition to your daily skincare routine. The ultra-lightweight moisturising formula is perfect for wearing alone or as a base for makeup, delivering a radiant, healthy-looking glow while providing broad UVA and UVB protection.

Valmont – Restoring Perfection

Ensure you guard your skin against the harmful effects of the sun every day with Valmont’s Restoring Perfection cream, which is buoyed by SPF 50 and has anti-ageing properties. It helps regain skin firmness and density while offering a protective treatment.

Sunscreen Sprays: Easy alternatives for ample SPF protection

With the sunnier skies of summertime above us, it’s time to slip into that new bikini you’ve been excited to show off your hard-earned beach body in. Although a waterproof mascara and SPF foundation is all well and good, before you set off under the glare of the sun’s rays, there’s one essential beauty – and health – accoutrement that no one should never be without in the heat of the summer season: sunscreen. And in particular, SPF (sun protection factor) sprays.
For those that recoil at the thought of slathering greasy, mineral sunblock on your perspiring skin, SPF sprays offer an easier and lighter application to protect the skin from sunburn, sunspots and the aftermath of a day of tanning under that big gold ball in the sky. To help, Gafencu has shortlisted some standout sunscreen spray products that may aid in beating the damaging impact of those summer rays.

1. Coola Suncare Classic SPF 30

Chemically based and vegan, this is one of the best overall spray-on sunscreens. Suitable for all skin types, water-resistant and with recyclable packaging, it should be applied 15 minutes prior to sun exposure and then reapplied after 80 minutes of swimming or sweating. It’s non greasy and imparts a delicate peach scent.

2. Banana Boat Ultra Sport

Clinically proven with a wide range of broad-spectrum options – with SPF of 15, 30, 50 and 100 – this is the best option for prolonged outdoor activity, such as running and hiking, where profuse sweating is on the cards – especially in Hong Kong’s hot and humid summer months. Ideal for athletes, it doesn’t require reapplication for two hours.

3. Filorga UV-Bronze Nutri-Regenerating Anti-Ageing SPF 50

This is a water-resistant and anti-ageing sun spray for the entire body. It contains an effective anti-oxidant stimulated by the sun’s rays for high UV protection and also combines a collagen booster with hyaluronic acid to boost the skin’s natural elasticity.

4. Clarins Sun Care Body Lotion Spray SPF 50

A good all-rounder, this sunscreen spray is perfect for all types of skin in all conditions and activity. Offers impressive sun protection via a non-greasy liquid texture that spreads easily and envelops skin in a gentle coating. It features a water- and sweat-resistant formula and is enhanced with botanical extracts to keep the skin moist.

5. Soleil Toujours Clean Conscious Antioxidant Sunscreen Mist SPF 50

Hailed as the only 70 percent organic, sunscreen mist formulated without the use of oxybenzone. Its antioxidant-rich formula hydrates the skin – while being non-greasy, fast-drying and water resistant for up to 80 minutes. The manufacturer uses sustainable, recycled, and biodegradable materials whenever possible and is committed to replace 95 percent of all petroleum based plastic packaging with bio-plastic (plastic materials made with biodegradable properties).

6. Ampleur VC Sun Protect Spray SPF 50+ / PA++++

This sunscreen spray is infused with no less than three types of vitamin C derivatives to boost anti-oxidation, while maintaining sebum control and melanin control. The manufacturer’s VC sun protect spray is a quick way to cover the body all over before you hit the beach – shielding the wearer against harmful UV rays.

7. Esthederm Sun Bronz Impulse UV inCellium Face & Body Spray

Incorporated with inCellium, an exclusive technology that is believed to boost the skin’s defenses against harmful radiation while still enabling the wearer to enjoy the benefits of sun exposure. It readies the skin for outdoor summer activity by strengthening its natural defenses, while helping to achieve a natural, even tan. It’s antioxidant action protects the skin from photo-ageing and UV damage.

8. Supergoop! Play 100% Mineral Body Mist SPF 30

Taking a more playful approach while still affording protection from the sun’s harmful rays. Have outdoor fun with friends while indulging all your favourite al fresco activities, knowing that you are protected with a quick-and-easy application before enjoying sun-blessed entertainment.

9. La Roche Posay – Anthelios Ultra Resistant Invisible Spray SPF 50+

Designed specifically with sensitive skin in mind, this is a lightweight, non-greasy and highly protective sunscreen spray. It uses the maker’s patented filtering system to offer very high, broad, photo-stable UV and infrared protection. It’s also dermatologically tested and fully hypo-allergenic as well.

Sun Kissed: Broad spectrum Summer skincare essentials for a healthy glow

With the cooler climes of spring firmly behind us and the sun’s rays intensifying, it’s now more critical than ever that your skincare routines encompass an array of UV-beating, moisturising boosters. To help, we’ve shortlisted some standout products that may enable you to beat the damaging summer heat.

First to the table is Melbourne-headquartered Aesop’s Protective Facial Lotion SPF25, a lightweight solution that blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays, while ensuring optimal dermal hydration via its hero antioxidant ingredients of green tea and tocopherol (vitamin E).

A more organic approach comes courtesy of Hourglass’s Equilibrium Broad Spectrum Day Fluid SPF30, which utilises four organic chemical compounds to create a shield against the elements and sundry sunrays. It comes with the side benefits of being vegan and cruelty-free.

Then there’s US-based beauty brand Skin Inc, with Pure UV Protect⁺, an all-in-one makeup base, sunscreen, moisturiser and anti-ageing cream billed to protect against UV and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Kicking things up a notch is Watery Sun Cream SPF50+ PA++++ from South Korean cosmetics label Laneige, with its birch sap-infused formula made to provide all-day sun protection as well as resistance to sweat and water.

The final entry on our list – German cosmetologist Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Sun Drops – gives your skin some much-needed tending courtesy of a hyper-condensed yet lightweight serum. Infused with cassia extract, vitamin E, hyaluronic acid and more, this SPF50 broad spectrum product is designed to protect against sun spots, skin discolouration and wrinkles, ensuring you maintain a youthful glow throughout the summer.