Everything SPF

By now, we all know the benefits of using SPF daily: it combats premature ageing, maintains skin’s elasticity, and, most importantly, reduces the risk of skin cancer. Yet I’ve been guilty of a once-a-day-is-enough approach, and paid the price with lobster burns and frequent trips to the dermatologist. As someone with skin prone to moles and freckles, I’m taking a more-is-more approach to my skin’s safety this year. Think of this as the SPF equivalent of the everything shower, a skincare strategy to ensure no stone is left unturned.

I used to religiously apply both moisturiser and SPF in the mornings, yet of late, I find it leaves my pores feeling clogged. Luckily, Emma Lewisham’s Sunceutical SPF 50 niacinamide-rich cream gives me the best of both worlds in one product: a satiny, non-irritating formulation with 20% Zinc Oxide for protection against UV. The product of eight years of work, it’s a real holy grail product.

Tired of SPFs that left me looking ghostly pale, I was recommended Ilia’s Super Serum Skin Tint by a colleague, and I’m never going back. Doing triple duty as a tinted primer, a plumping moisturiser and an SPF, it absorbs like a dream and is non-comedogenic, a rarity in the market. With 30 different shades to choose from, there’s a tint for everyone.

Australia has some of the most intense UV radiation in the world: for this reason, Australian SPFs tend to be some of the world’s best. I’ve been obsessed with this Ultra Violette Preen Screen, a refreshing reapplication mist that can be worn over makeup, and gives me that protected peace of mind.

The skin on your lips is considerably thinner than the rest of your body, and also lacks melanin, making them more prone to UV damage. I love this soothing Rodial Lip Oil to prevent burns and soothe dry lips. With a lovely terracotta tint, it serves double duty as a lip gloss too. 

 I’ve spoken at length about how the skin on your scalp is an extension of that on your face, and harmful UV rays can damage your follicles, leading to hair loss. For those days when I forgo a hat, Davines’ SU Milk is ideal for ensuring my scalp doesn’t suffer. Lightweight and hydrating, it won’t leave any greasy residue to screw up your do. 

After a day spent in the sun, even if I haven’t burned, my skin often goes a little dry. A generous application of Horace’s Soothing Aftersun is my go-to product for replenishing lost moisture and soothing inflammation. It’s formulated for all skin types, and with a non-sticky gel texture that absorbs easily, it leaves my skin feeling supple and smooth.