Despite all the information out there, it seems suncare remains a major blind spot for Brits. Based on research by La Roche-Posay* published a few weeks ago, I unveil here the most common misunderstandings on the topic and suggest products that will help you avoid sun damage and help your skin and hair look the best this summer.
Among the shocking facts and figures revealed by this research, it appears that more than 25 per cent of 25–34-year-olds think one can’t get sunburned within the first 30 minutes of being outside. The truth is that with high levels of UV radiation, fair skin can start burning in as little as 10 minutes. Even more are convinced that care is only needed in summer. A staggering 34 per cent believe that sun rays can’t hurt through glass. Although UVB rays, – the ones that burn you – are largely blocked by glass, more than half of UVA rays – responsible for skin ageing – go through. Both contribute to skin cancer. A quick way to remember which UV rays cause what is to think that “A” is for ageing and “B” for burning. UVA activate melanin, which makes the skin tan. In the case of UVB rays, they help produce vitamin D.
Our hair is also subject to damage by UV radiation as they harm the hair fibre. Dryness, straw texture, brittleness, bleaching, decreased lustre… all can be caused by sun exposure. Photochemical degradation of the hair results in substantial damage to hair proteins and melanins.
There are many products in the market claiming to help you avoid sun damage, so it can be difficult to separate the wheat from the chaff. As someone who grew up and worked for a long time in very sunny latitudes, I believe I know quite a bit about which products are best to avoid sun damage. Here is what you’ll find in my beach bag this summer:
LA ROCHE-POSAY ANTHELIOS UVMUNE 400 SPF50+ & ANTHELIOS INVISIBLE SPRAY SPF30
I wear a high SPF lotion on my face all year round under my foundation, but when temperatures start going up, I prefer just an all-in-one product, and the best I’ve tried so far are always from La Roche-Posay. This season my choice is La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 50+ tinted fluid. It has a very light texture, gives a bit of coverage and provides a lovely natural finish.
Shake before use and if you are going to the pool or the beach, remember to reapply regularly, especially if you spend a lot of time in the water. Added bonus: it doesn’t make your eyes sting.
As I am of Mediterranean descent, unless I am in a tropical destination, I use SPF30, in this case, La Roche-Posay Anthelios 30 invisible spray. Specifically formulated for sensitive skin, this is an extremely light and non-greasy lotion that doesn’t smear at all. It protects not only from UV rays but from infrared too, which is a type of radiation that induces free radicals in the skin and limits its antioxidant capacity. Added bonus: it smells heavenly and little goes a very long way.
AVANT SUPREME HYALURONIC ACID ANTI-OXIDISING DUO MOISTURISER & 111SKIN ROSE GOLD BRIGHTENING MASK
As important as it is to protect your skin in the sun is to do it afterwards, especially your face. Exposure to the sun and high temperatures will always cause some level of skin dehydration regardless of how carefully you try to shield it. Hyaluronic acid is great at retaining water and it helps your skin stretch and flex. This is why it is so good as a moisturiser and at reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. The new Avant Supreme Hyaluronic Acid Anti-Oxidising Duo Moisturiser contains high-potency hyaluronic acid as well as avocado and jojoba oils. These three ingredients work together to promote hydration, healing and collagen synthesis. Expect smoother, softer skin with a renewed glow. On application it feels very light and cooling, ideal after a day in the sun. Added bonus: it can be used day and/or night.
When exposing my skin to the hardships of summer, I turn to 111Skin Rose Gold Brightening Mask once a week for a power boost. This hydrogel mask contains a cocktail of high-potency compounds – including a substrate of Botulinum extract – that firm the skin and plump fine lines and wrinkles whilst soothing inflammation and irritation produced by sun exposure. Adde bonus: immediate “red carpet” radiance.
AVANT RECONSTRUCTING KERATIN COMPLEX ULTRA SHINE HAIR CREAM
Chlorine, seawater and sun exposure are very harsh on hair. By the end of summer, most of our heads resemble a bird’s nest. Not this year, Avant Reconstructing Keratin Complex leaves your hair smooth and radiant thanks to its unique formulation with keratin and sweet almond. Castor oil and sea algae stimulate growth while aloe vera reduces scalp irritation and promotes exfoliation thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. This wonder ingredient also promotes skin cell renewal, hydration and collagen formation.
Avant Reconstructing Keratin Complex Hair Cream dramatically reduces frizz, stimulates natural growth and helps the hair grow back thicker and stronger.
The texture is surprisingly light. Use on damp hair after shampoo and conditioner. You’ll find your hair immediately lush, shiny and frizz-free. Added bonus: you won’t need to purchase more than one in the whole summer as a small dollop is enough for even very long hair.
SENSAI BRONZING GEL SPF6
To finish, a little allowance for vanity. Available in three shades, Sensai Bronzing Gel gives your face a wonderful bronze sheer with a silky finish. Its texture is not only light but extremely refreshing as it is 70 percent water. Therefore, it has remarkable hydrating properties.#
Use during the day mixed with your SPF lotion for a natural sun-kissed glow and in the evening, apply over a tinted moisturiser and you won’t need foundation.
This bronzing gel is particularly popular with men, as it doesn’t stain, doesn’t look at all like make up but provides a bit of colour and brightness to any complexion.
Before I go, remember that whether you are spending this summer in town, the mountains, or the seaside, the risk of sun damage is always there, but it is easily avoidable with a bit of common sense and products like the ones featured here.
Words: Julia Pasarón
(*) The research for La Roche-Posay was carried out online by Opinion Matters between 19.06.2024 – 21.06.2024 amongst a panel resulting in 2,000 nationally representative respondents.
Show Comments +