As the sun finally graces us with its warm embrace, it’s time to gear up and make the most of the summer season with your favourite people. But before you race out of the house, Jazzy Jeff blaring from your phone and your picnic hamper packed, remember to stop for a moment and give some serious thought to sun protection, because nothing says ‘fun in the sun’ like healthy, happy skin.
Even here in the UK, where the sun can often appear pale and not feel as hot as on holiday, it’s important to protect our skin from its harmful rays.
Sunburn is not just a temporary discomfort but a sign of skin damage. A single blistering sunburn during childhood can double the risk of developing skin cancer later in life. By applying sunscreen with a high SPF and broad-spectrum protection, we create a protective barrier that helps prevent sunburn, keeping our skin healthy and safe, now and into old age.
We experience our fair share of sunburn incidents on this small island, with skin cancer rates rising year on year. But it’s not all bad news. Although numbers may be climbing, according to recent statistics, around 86% of melanoma skin cancer cases are preventable. And by instilling sun-safe habits, including vigilant sunscreen use from an early age, we can significantly reduce the risk of skin cancer later in life.
Infants and Toddlers: Gentle Protection for Delicate Skin
For our littlest ones, extra care is required to shield their delicate skin from the sun’s harsh rays. Look for sunscreen specifically formulated for babies and toddlers. These types of sunscreens often feature a high SPF, broad-spectrum protection, and gentle, hypoallergenic ingredients. Brands such as Johnson’s Baby and Aveeno Baby offer excellent options to ensure your little sunbeam stays protected and comfortable.
Children and Preteens: Fun in the Sun with Added Protection
Active and playful, children need sunscreens that can keep up with their energy. Look for water-resistant formulas that provide broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Brands like Green People, SunBum, and Nivea Sun Kids offer child-friendly sunscreens in various formats such as lotions, sprays, and sticks. They’re easy to apply, making sun protection a breeze for the whole family.
Teens and Adolescents: Skincare Education Meets Sun Protection
As our children transition into their teenage years, it’s crucial to instil good skincare habits that include sensible sun protection. Encourage them to opt for sunscreens with a higher SPF and lightweight formulations that won’t interfere with their skincare routines. Brands like Neutrogena, La Roche-Posay, and CeraVe offer sunscreens tailored to young skin. Look for oil-free and non-comedogenic options to ensure a seamless integration into their skincare regime.
Adults: Age-Defying Protection for a Radiant Glow
For adults, sun protection isn’t just about preventing sunburn; it’s also about maintaining youthful, radiant skin. Look for sunscreens that offer broad-spectrum protection, high SPF ratings, and additional anti-aging benefits. Brands such as L’Oreal, Garnier, and Olay provide a wide range of sunscreens designed specifically for adults. Choose from moisturising formulations, lightweight mists, or tinted options to suit your preferences and skin type.
For Older Skin: Nurturing Mature Skin with Sun Care
As we age, our skin becomes more vulnerable to sun damage. For older people, sunscreens with added benefits like antioxidants and moisturisers can help nourish and protect the skin. Look for formulations that cater to mature skin, providing hydration, firming properties, and protection against UVA and UVB rays. Brands like Eucerin, Clinique, and Elizabeth Arden offer excellent options to keep senior skin healthy and radiant.
Some of our favourites:
Nivea Sun
Nivea Sun offers a wide range of sunscreens catering to different needs and skin types. Their products provide broad-spectrum protection and are suitable for the entire family.
Garnier Ambre Solaire
Garnier Ambre Solaire is a popular brand known for its sun care products. They offer a variety of sunscreens, including those formulated for sensitive skin, babies, and children.
La Roche-Posay
La Roche-Posay is a dermatologist-recommended brand that offers high-quality sunscreens. Their products are often praised for their effectiveness and gentle formulations suitable for sensitive skin.
P20
P20 is a long-lasting sun protection brand that offers up to 10 hours of protection with a single application. Their formulas are highly water-resistant and suitable for all family members.
Hawaiian Tropic
Hawaiian Tropic is known for its tropical-inspired sunscreens that provide broad-spectrum protection and a pleasant fragrance. They offer a range of products suitable for different skin types and ages.
Boots Soltan
Boots Soltan is a well-known UK brand that offers a wide range of sunscreens suitable for all ages. They provide different levels of protection, including UVA and UVB filters, and have options for sensitive skin.
Altruist Dermatologist Sunscreen
Altruist is a dermatologist-developed sunscreen brand that focuses on high-quality protection at an affordable price. Their sunscreens are fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin.
Solait by Superdrug
Solait by Superdrug offers a variety of sunscreens suitable for the whole family. They provide UVA and UVB protection, and their range includes different formulations such as lotions, sprays, and mousse.
SunSense
SunSense is an Australian brand that has gained popularity in the UK for its high-quality sunscreens. They offer a range of products for various needs, including sensitive skin, babies, and sports enthusiasts.
Ultrasun
On the pricey side, but amazing for sensitive skin and also benefits from celligent, an active ingredient that neutralises free radicals which can damage skin cells.
Remember to always check the product labels and choose a sunscreen that suits your family’s specific needs, such as SPF level, water resistance, and sensitivity to ingredients.
