Be Sun-smart: Top to Toe Protection

You’ve most likely heard it many times before, but it honestly can’t be said enough that the sun is your skin’s #1 public enemy and the surest way to cause pre-mature aging and increase the risk of getting skin cancer.

So I was shocked to find out that today from the experts that the message is still not getting across to the people out there and not everyone is using sunscreen on a daily basis. Many are only using sunscreen when they head out to the beach but not when they are out and about. Incidental sun causes more damage as people don't remember to apply sunscreen and that most of our sun damage is caused in the first 18 years of our lives but  that damage won’t come to surface until many years later.

UVA rays, even on a cloudy day will cause damage to skin cells, causing those fine lines and deep wrinkles. And if you want to tan, do so safely with sunscreen - it may take longer but it is safer!

Don’t wait till you have to repair the damage, prevention is key. Here are some great sun-protecting products for you to use everyday when you are out, rain clould or shine - that will go a long way in helping you stay protected from those nasty rays

Facial sunscreens

1. Endota  SPF 15 Day Moisturiser SPF 15 – 50ml
Launched as a take-home after care product with the new Endota Glycolic in-spa treatments, this physical blocking moisturiser sunscreen doesn’t deteriorate like chemical ones do over time so I’m overlooking the fact that it’s only SPF15. It’s quite thick but the paste-like formula rubs well into skin to give a surprising matte finish without any hint of shine and would suit normal to oily skin types . With moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera juice, jojoba oil, green tea extract, vitamin C to hydrate and protect the skin, you get 2 benefits in 1.

I’ve now made this my daily facial sunscreen as I love how it also primes my face and help makeup sit better on the surface of skin. Best of all there is no white cast usually associated with physical sunscreens to be seen.

RRP A$65 at Endota spas and Endota online.

2. Moisturising Daily Defense SPF 30+ - 100ml
On days when I’m giving my skin a break from the intensive layering of serums and treatment products, I only this product and I’m set to go. This light lotion absorbs into skin with ease and little rubbing, non greasy it also leaves a semi matte finish that also works well as a primer for makeupl.

I’ve found that this broad-spectrum moisturiser sunscreen too rich to use with my vitamin C oil serum and it caused a few breakouts around my nasal labial folds when I do the layering of multiple treatments products.

On its own, it’s beautiful and hydrating enough and if only I don’t have so many other skin issues like pigmentation, large pores and uneven skintone, I’d gladly give up the layering to use only this product and this would make one great product dryer skin types. Thankfully it’s also packed full of great ingredients - hyaluronic acid to boost hydration, nicotinamide (a form of vitamin B3) to promote elasticity and soothe skin so that I don’t feel guilty when I go without treatment products with its use.

RRP A$49 at selected salons or online from the Facial Company (where it's $9.80 cheaper too)


Body Sunscreens

I’m a lazy person by nature and spray and aerosol type sunscreens will forever be a part of my life.

3. Le Tan Coconut spray SPF 30+ - 250ml
The heavenly coconut scent is the reason why I love this product. Normally I’m not a coconut fan as it can be overwhelming and synthetic but this one is just right and very natural. A milky lotion in a spray, I spritz straight into my hand it rub onto my legs and arms but spray directly onto the body for hard to reach places like back of legs and necks for 4 hours of protection. Not too sticky and leaves skin with a soft sheen, it makes me feel like I’m taking an island holiday every time I put this to use.

RRP A$16.99 at supermarkets, Kmart, Big W, Priceline and selected pharmacies

Neutrogena Ultimate Sport Sunscreen Spray SPF 30+ - 140g
This aerosol sunscreen spritz gives a fine mist all over skin without having to rubbed in – pefect for bikini skin with the upcoming summer. The spray has a light fresh scent and leaves skin feeling dry to touch once the alcohol (enthanol) evaporates, but if you prefer your products to not contain alcohol, you are better off with non-aerosol types. Neutrogena Ultimate sport is made to be sweat and transfer resistant and last up to 4 hours and contains helioplex to stablise and slow down the deterioration of the sunscreen formula.

RRP A$17.99 RRP A$16.99 at supermarkets, Kmart, Big W, Priceline and selected pharmacies

Remember, sunscreen is only 1 of the mantra of slip slop slap. I highly recommend a wide brimmed hat and light long sleever shirt when you’re outdoors for long hours for keeping your skin looking its best for the longest possible time and prevent skin cancer.

I wished someone spent the time to tell me all this when I was a teen as I  never used sunscreen on a daily basis until my mid 20s. I just hope I can undo the damage I've caused all those years before.

What is your biggest skincare regret?


Product featured have been provided for consideration.