GROUPON GUIDE TO BELFAST

SPF in Every Season

BY: Nic |14 Oct 2015

Hands up if you apply sunscreen all year round, whatever the weather? As shorter, cloudy days creep in, it's a common misconception that we should ditch the sunscreen. The truth is that our skin is subject to damage 356 - in every season, even through clouds - you don't have to be on a sun lounger by the pool for it to happen.

SPF Every Day

Whether you're walking at Shaw's Bridge, cycling to work or playing sport, exposed skin is prone to damage - and the best way to protect yourself is by getting into the habit of using SPF. I keep mine with my usual skincare, so that daily application becomes a normal step in my morning routine - it only takes 10 seconds.

According to an Australian research report, people who applied sunscreen everyday showed 24% less skin aging compared to participants who only used sunscreen part of the time. I'll take that.

The days of gloopy SPF that leaves a sticky white cast on your face are long gone, with sophisticated lightweight formulas available on a variety of budgets.

Top Three SPFs:

These are my Top 3 tried and tested SPFs for the face:

La Roche Posay Anthelios XL SPF50+

Has a subtle skin evening tint and fluid, lightweight texture, making it one of my favourites as it sinks in so quickly.

Vichy Ideal Soleil SPF50 Mattifying Face Fluid Dry Touch

Does exactly what it says on the tube, making it the perfect choice for oily skins. Seconds after application you wouldn't even know it was there.

Clinique Even Better Dark Spot Defense SPF45

Great for on the go as its compact packaging fits easily into a makeup bag or pocket. Another with a lightweight texture, this is quick and easy to apply.

All three of these work well under makeup and won't interfere with foundation. They should be applied as the last skincare step, on top of all other products and before any makeup. You could get away with a slightly lower factor in Winter or use a foundation with SPF, but personally I prefer to go the whole hog! Don't forget your neck, tops of ears and backs of hands, all areas prone to damage and the first signs of visible ageing.