I recently discussed some of the best facial SPFs on the market, so now it's time to focus on the body. People are very picky when it comes to sunscreens for the bod. Some prefer gels, while other prefer creams or mists. Below are some recommendations that should - hopefully - suit a wide range of sun care shoppers.
For those that want to speed up the body's tanning process, I recommend the Soltan Protect & Tan Spray SPF15 (£6.50 Boots). With a lower SPF15, this sunscreen is best for either those who have a longer burn time (see here) or those who don't mind reapplying sunscreen throughout the day. SPF15 will give you adequate protection (this sunscreen uses the highest level of UVA protection), however it won't protect your skin all day. That being said it's still worth it - even if you do have to top up - because this sunscreen is formulated with an innovative ingredient that helps stimulate your body's natural tanning production!
The Soltan Protect & Tan Spray SPF15 boasts a handy spray applicator and a very lightweight lotion that applies easily and absorbs quickly. Oh, and a little goes a long way! It also features that classic sunscreen scent that makes you think of sunshine, beaches, and piña coladas!
For mist fans out there, the Bioderma Photoderm MAX Sun Mist SPF50+ (£17 Boots) is perfect. It applies like a dream - the completely transparent lightweight oil works into the skin really well, ensuring you reach and cover all areas of your body. It also feels incredibly nourishing on the skin. What's particularly great about this sunscreen is its ability to be applied on both dry and wet skin (it is water resistant too), making it perfect for those who are in and out of the water and don't have the patience to keep drying and reapplying (aka me!). The Bioderma Photoderm MAX Sun Mist SPF50+ is suitable for all skin types - even the most sensitive - and, importantly, it is adapted for men and their areas of hair growth. The only downside to this SPF is that a very tiny amount of film is left on skin after application.
For the natural and organic lovers, the L:A Bruket Nr. 169 Sunscreen SPF30 Patchouli/Mint (£43.95 parfumdreams.co.uk) is a great option. This natural sunscreen is free of any toxic or undesirable ingredients. Instead, it is packed with nourishing and protective ingredients such as avocado oil, lavender essential oil, sunflower oil, and titanium dioxide (without nano particles). As for texture, the the L:A Bruket Sunscreen SPF30 has a lightweight consistency that requires a little more effort working into the skin. I recommend applying this sunscreen as quickly as possible, as the more it absorbs, the harder it is to move it around the skin. A little goes a long way, so expect this 200ml bottle to last you a long time. The only slight downside to this natural protector is that it whitens the skin ever so slightly once absorbed.
For fans of classic creams, you can't go wrong with the Payot Solar Sunny SPF50 Crème Divine (£27.10 sanareva.co.uk). This rich and nourishing cream applies easily and quickly, gliding across the skin and absorbing surprisingly fast. Skin feels like it has been injected with moisture the second it's applied and this moisture last throughout the day. The Payot Solar Sunny SPF50 Crème Divine has a beautiful scent that isn't overpowering. It dries clear and feels weightless and comfortable on the skin.
Now, it's important you don't leave out your lips. The skin on your lips require as much protection as that on your body. One of my favourite lip protectors is the Balmkind Alpine Rose & Lysine Lip Balm SPF20 (£13 victoriahealth.com). This nourishing balm is packed with moisturising, antioxidant-rich ingredients that help to hydrate, soothe, and protect the lips. These ingredients include fruit and flower oils and extracts, an essential amino acid, hydrating oat lipids, and soothing licorice root. The Alpine Rose & Lysine Lip Balm SPF20 applies easily, evenly, and cleanly, smoothing and protecting the lips the second it's applied.