I absolutely love feeling the sun on my skin so have been enjoying the heat wave that hit the U.K. this week. As we all know, it is especially important to use use SPF on sunny days. Here’s how I protect myself from head to toe:
Hair
Many people don’t think to protect their hair but, just like skin, our locks can also get burnt. Sun frazzled hair can take on a dry, straw like texture and may change in colour. Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer filters out harmful rays and contains a blend of six oils (coconut, argan, macadamia, sweet almond, safflower seed and grapeseed) to give hair softeness and shine. This can also be used on dry hair to refresh and restyle. I make sure to style my hair without a parting when I’ll be spending time in the sun to ensure that my scalp does not burn.
Eyes
Since UVA (the a stands for ageing) rays are present during all day light not just direct sunlight, I give the delicate skin around my eyes an extra layer of protection by wearing sunglasses that have lenses with UV filters (even in winter!). Wearing shades also means less squinting in the sun which can cause expression lines.
Face
As 90% of premature aging is caused by the aforementioned UVA rays, I generally use a minimum of SPF 30 on my face, neck and hands as these are the areas most frequently exposed to the sun. I’ve been using the Drunk Elephant Umbria Tinte sunscreen lately. The tint ensures that the active zinc oxide doesn’t leave a white cast whilst providing a tiny bit of coverage. The formula also has the skincare benefits of antioxidants plus marula and raspberry seed oils.
Lips
Lips are another often forgotten area, however skin cancer can be particularly dangerous here so wearing a lip balm or colour containing an SPF is advisable during the day. I like to protect this thin, delicate skin with Lanolips Lip Ointment in Rhubarb. This product not only gives lips SPF protection of 30 but also a beautiful hint of colour and shine.
Body
I love the convenience of a spray for covering this large area. Nivea’s version also moisturises and of course has the brand’s iconic scent. I make sure to spray on liberally and rub in thoroughly to ensure good coverage. Regular reapplication is needed to stay protected.
Top ups (face)
Since I don’t like to pile layers 
and layers of lotion on my face, I use Kate Somerville’s Uncomplikated SPF 50 Soft Focus Setting Spray to to up my protection here. Formulated with hyaluronic acid, this setting spray hydrates the skin whilst protecting from sun damage. The finish is matte and has an added bonus of light-diffusing silicone powder which gives a soft-focus effect by blurring the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Although the product is fragranced with lavender essential oil all I can smell is straight up SPF. I don’t mind this though as the scent reassures me that I am topped up.
How do you protect yourself from the sun?
Details:
Bumble and Bumble Hairdresser’s Invisible Oil Heat/UV Protective Primer, Lanolips Lip Ointment with Colour SPF15 in Rhubarb and Nivea Moisturising Sun Spray are available from www.boots.com
Drunk Elephant Umbra Tinte Physical Daily Defense SPF30 and Kate Somerville Uncomplikated Spf 50 Soft Focus Makeup Setting Spray are available from Space NK. New customers can receive £10 off a £40 spend by using this link: www.spacenk.com
makeeverydayluxe.com is affiliated with Boots and Space NK
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