Facial sunscreens vs makeup with SPF
Your options are sun creams formulated to use on the face, or makeup with SPF included. Choosing a sunscreen for your face (rather than a general use body formulation) means you’ll get a silky texture that’s easy to rub in and blend, and less greasy than the usual body lotions. Many offer broad spectrum sun protection, and may also be formulated with more sensitive-prone facial skin in mind. Remember that the skin on your face can be more delicate than your body, so needs some extra TLC.
Multi-tasking foundations or tinted moisturiser with SPF are ideal for low sun exposure throughout the day or in the winter, but aren’t formulated to be used as reliable sun and UVA/UVB protection on their own. Think of makeup with SPF as a bonus layer ’ chances are you’ll apply it more evenly and methodically than your sunscreen, catching and covering burn prone areas like under your eyes, along your hairline and around your lips.
What is the order to apply your facial sunscreen
Layering sun protection is the answer to effective anti-ageing skincare. Take into account your skin type, your daily activities and how quickly your skin burns. Begin by cleansing your skin with a cleanser that suits your skin type. Next, layer on your moisturiser - again, make sure it works well with your skin type [1]. (If a tinted moisturiser with SPF is rich enough for your skin, you can skip the first moisturising step.) Next, apply your sunscreen. It's really important to apply the right amount - about half a teaspoon [2]. When it is fully absorbed, you can layer your make up on top.
If you’re outdoors a lot, you'll find it beneficial top up with your sunscreen or tinted moisturiser throughout the day. Mineral sunscreens work by reflecting sunlight and providing a physical barrier from the sun (hence why they sometimes look more opaque than their chemical sisters) so apply your makeup over the top ’ saves looking ghostly at the office or in a night-out snap!
Non tinted sunscreens ideal for the face
Life Basics SPF 30 All Natural Facial Sunscreen
Lightweight and non-greasy, the Life Basics SPF 30 All Natural Facial Sunscreen is ideal for everyday wear and can even be used beneath makeup. Hydrating and silky smooth, this Vegan formula glides on easily, providing long lasting protection thanks to active ingredient Zinc Oxide, while soothing Calendula, Rosehip and Green Tea nourish skin for a satin finish.
Skin Juice Sun Juice Mineral SPF 15
The Skin Juice Sun Juice Mineral SPF15 is a cosmetic cream with an SPF 15 and not technically a sunscreen so consider adding additional sun protection for outdoors. This is formulated with super food ingredients (Kiwi, Avocado, Kakadu Plum and Green Tea), is gentle enough for use by children (and during pregnancy). It can also be worn as your daily moisturiser, making it a great inclusion to simplify your summer skincare regimen.
100% Pure Green Tea SPF
This 100% Pure Green Tea SPF30 sunscreen is a dual-purpose, light-textured lotion that hydrates and nourishes the skin while providing broad-spectrum protection against harmful UV rays. Formulated with natural Zinc Oxide in a hydrating base of Aloe Vera and Cucumber Juices, this reef-friendly sunscreen has anti-ageing, anti-inflammatory and skin-protective properties thanks to Sesame Seed Oil, Raspberry Seed Oil and Green Tea Extract, while Avocado, Olive and Rosehip Oils help to moisturise and soften the skin for comfortable day-long wear.
Soléo Organics Sunscreen SPF30+
The Soléo SPF30+ Sunscreen is water resistant for up to 3 hours and is easily absorbed into the skin. This sunscreen is fantastic for outdoor activities like going to the beach, outdoor parties, and racing around catching up on errands.
Tinted moisturisers with added SPF
The below products fall into the cosmetics category and also have the added benefits of SPF.
Skin Juice Sun Juice Mineral SPF15 Tinted
The Skin Juice Sun Juice Mineral SPF15 Tinted offers more than it says on the tube (how humble)! It’s also a CC cream, covering redness and offering self-adjusting colour formulated for most skin shades.
100% Pure BB Cream
The 100% Pure BB Cream offers light coverage in a range of shades, is non-greasy and has added skin caring ingredients including Aloe Vera, Jojoba Oil, Bilberry, Cherry, and Raspberry. The SPF25 gives light sun protection and it can be used alone or layered with your usual moisturiser or makeup.
Natural Instinct Tinted Face Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF30
The Natural Instinct Tinted Face Tinted Face Sunscreen SPF30 gives a sheer tint to skin, with UVA and UVB protection and nourishing ingredients including Grapeseed Oil, Jojoba Oil, and Rosehip Oil.
Nude By Nature Sheer Glow BB Cream
The Nude By Nature Sheer Glow BB Cream is another excellent multi-purpose BB cream, covering the skin in a sheer, dewy glow that leaves it hydrated all day and night thanks to ultra-hydrating Desert Date Oil, which is rich in essential fatty acids that soften and moisturise tired skin. This silky smooth, lightweight and non-greasy formula gives sheer to light coverage, and has been crafted to soften pigmentation and fine lines. It's also great for all skin types and offers SPF8 sun protection from mineral ingredients. This formula comes in five shades: 01 Porcelain, 02 Soft Sand, 03 Nude Beige, 04 Natural Tan and 05 Golden Tan.
Don't forget your lips
100% Pure Sweet Mint Lip Balm with SPF15
With all of your effort put into protecting your face, don't forget to protect your lips too. The 100% Pure Lip Balm with SPF is a lip balm with SPF 15 to keep them moisturised with Beeswax, Cacao Seed Butter, and Coconut Oil.
Natural after sun care products for the face
Juniper Calming Rose Otto Mist
Ease the warm feeling of too much sun by spritzing the Juniper Calming Rose Otto Mist on your face. When your skin has been out in the sun and surf, it can become extra sensitive. This mist soothes sensitive and reddened skin with gentle ingredients including Aloe Vera, Green Tea, and Rose Otto.
100% Pure Lysine Lip Balm
The 100% Pure Lysine Lip Balm contains Lysine, Coconut Oil, Tea Tree, Eucalyptus and Peppermint which all work together to provide a nice glossy and zingy cooling effect on the lips.
[1] http://www.xovain.com/how-to/how-to-wear-sunscreen-under-makeup[Xovain]. [2] http://www.sunsmart.com.au/uv-sun-protection/slop-on-sunscreen[SunSmart]. [3] http://www.health.harvard.edu/oral-health/preventing-cold-sores[Harvard Health Publications].
With all sunscreens avoid contact with eyes and if irritation persists discontinue use. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection. Wear protective clothing, hats and sunglasses when exposed to the sun, and stay in the shade where possible. Prolonged high-risk sun exposure should be avoided. Frequent reapplication and use in accordance with the directions is required for effective sun protection. Always read the label and use only as directed.
