New Zealand’s harsh sun, combined with our love of the outdoors, make sunscreen the number-one beauty product. While any sunscreen is better than none at all, having the right one for the occasion will make it more comfortable.
Face:
Layering thick sunscreen on your face is never pleasant – especially if you’re adding makeup on top. Beauty companies have come to the rescue with a range of high SPF products that feel weightless on skin, making them a great addition to our everyday routine.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Clear Face SPF30, is oil free with a water-light texture, making it perfect for those prone to break-outs.
Nivea Sun Light Feel Daily Face Veil SPF30, is a good size for taking on holiday, and at such a great price you’ll be more inclined to use it on your neck and décolletage (you know you’re supposed to!).
The very light tint of Clinique City Block Sheer SPF25, makes it perfect for wearing alone or under makeup.
From left to right: Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Clear Face SPF30, $22.99. Nivea Sun Light Feel Daily Face Veil SPF30, $10.49. Clinique City Block Sheer SPF25, $50. Murad Essential-C Sun Balm SPF35, $54.
If you’re out and about all day you’ll need to top up your block, which is where sunscreen sticks come in handy. Small enough for the handbag – with zero chance of a messy spill – they’re ideal for adding an extra layer of protection on the go. Plus, the formula goes on clear, so you don’t need a mirror to ensure you’ve rubbed it all in.
Murad Essential-C Sun Balm SPF35, is compact enough to fit the tiniest clutch – essential if you’re at the races or an outdoor wedding.
From left to right: Garnier Ambre Solaire BB Cream SPF50, $17.49. Invisible Zinc Tinted Daywear SPF30+, $29.99. Dermalogica Ultra Sensitive Tint SPF30, $70.
Choose tinted sunblock if you want to skip foundation altogether but still enjoy glow-giving sheer cover. (For a more sun-kissed look, add a sweep of bronzer afterwards.)
Garnier Ambre Solaire BB Cream SPF50, is the newest superstar in their popular BB range – a light weight tinted formula that adapts to skintones making it perfect for the face and neck.
For those who prefer more coverage, Invisible Zinc Tinted Daywear SPF30+, has a thicker formula, and the zinc oxide helps prevent skin pigment from going any darker in the sun.
Sensitive skin will love Dermalogica Ultra Sensitive Tint SPF30, which has a hydrating and low-irritant formula, and sheer cover too.
Body
Today’s sunscreens are so moisturising they can double up as a body lotion in the mornings. This is especially useful if you’re sporting a fake tan: the more you moisturise, the longer you will stay beautifully bronzed.
From left to right: Nivea Sun Moisturising Sunscreen Lotion 200ml SPF50+, $19.39. Garnier Ambre Solaire Sensitive Advanced SPF50+ Lotion, $21.99. Neutrogena Beach Defence Water + Sun Barrier Spray SPF50, $24.99.
Nivea Sun Moisturising Sunscreen Lotion 200ml SPF50+, dries quickly.
Garnier Ambre Solaire Sensitive Advanced SPF50+ Lotion, is a new formula that protects against the long UV rays that penetrate deeper into the skin.
For beach-goers, fine-mist sunscreen sprays are your new best friend. The no-rub formula makes them the easiest sunscreen to apply when skin is already sandy – perfect for kids who are in and out of the water.
But do make sure to put enough on: these sprays require a slow, even application for proper protection.
A good trick is to use a sunscreen lotion in the morning before heading out, and use a spray to top up during the day, such as Neutrogena Beach Defence Water + Sun Barrier Spray SPF50.
Photos: Getty Images
