Sun Screening in the Summertime
If you know me, you know that I preach about the benefits of effective sunscreen. I wasn't always so meticulous with my suncare routine. For many years, I allowed the sun to color my skin, chasing that ever-elusive golden complexion. However, as I became more interested in rejuvenating my skin and brightening my complexion, I started using sunscreen daily. After witnessing its incredible properties firsthand, I am now a true believer and appreciator of its capacity to protect the skin from free radicalization and the accumulation of the signs of time.
The higher the Sun Protection Factor (SPF), the more efficient the product is in preventing skin damage. In my opinion, it's always better to layer your sun protection separately from your moisturizing or makeup products. Treat sunscreen as its own entity. Many foundations and moisturizers on the market include SPF. However, since the SPF is integrated into another product, you don't get as much protection as you would from an SPF product designed solely for sun protection. Essentially, you'd need to wear a ton of foundation or moisturizer to get adequate sun protection from the SPF included in the product.
I know that many sunscreens can be difficult to work with, so I thought I would round up a few that I enjoy using. These products are makeup-friendly, so you can rest assured that they won’t mess up your makeup.
Neutrogena – Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50 Broad Spectrum UVA/UVB
A mouthful for sure, this sunscreen launched several years ago to rave reviews, and I can personally attest to its popularity. It remains my holy grail among drugstore brands. The Hydro Boost Water Gel Lotion Sunscreen gives the skin a great supplement of moisture. In the hot summer months, it can double as your moisturizer. This sunscreen has no white cast, but please note that the finish is very dewy. If you love glass skin, this doubles as a makeup primer.
Shiseido – Ultra Sun Protector Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50
Shiseido has been making incredible beauty products since 1872. This luxury brand creates exceptionally refined products that feel luxurious on the skin. The Ultra Sun Protector Lotion Sunscreen SPF 50 is a favorite of mine. It also doubles well as a primer and provides tremendous moisture. I found it gave a slight golden glow to my skin, leaving it looking moist and plumped up.
Ultra Violette – Supreme Hydrating Facial Screen SPF 50
My latest discovery, this sunscreen applies smoothly and feels very hydrating on the skin. I have worn this under makeup and on top of my skincare, and it does not disappoint. The Ultra Violette Supreme Hydrating Facial Screen SPF 50 packs a wallop of moisture, so expect a glowy appearance on your skin that lasts for hours.
La Roche-Posay – Anthelios Ultra-Fluid SPF 50+ Facial Sunscreen
This sunscreen is oil-free, super lightweight, and leaves a matte finish on the skin. The Anthelios Ultra-Fluid SPF 50+ Facial Sunscreen is water and sweat resistant for the first 80 minutes after application, making it ideal for working out or having fun in the sun. This sunscreen is lightweight and works well under makeup or on clean skin, offering versatile sun protection that adapts to any skin type.
Sun protection is a must in our day and age, as unprotected sun exposure can lead to discolorations and cause wrinkles to form prematurely. Remember to apply and reapply during the day, as protection fades every two hours or so.
Until next time, dear beauty reader, stay beautiful!
