BEAUTY TEST DRIVE
The best SPFs now summer's (finally) en route
By Laura Shehata, 13 May 2017
Although it might not feel like it (yes, those eye rolls are for you, British weather) summer is well on its way. Which is basically code for 'get your SPF routine in check', people. Luckily for you, and for me, I checked out of grey April days to hit the beach in Dubai and test a bunch of sun protecting goodness so that you can get a fast track.
Pictures: Laura Shehata
Here comes the sun
I’m not shy about getting my tan on, but it’s not just the fair-skinned babes who need to watch it while soaking up the rays. My olive skin tone burns without protection, and I’m prone to sensitive skin to boot. But I suffered no reactions with these (always do test to make sure though), so I know they’re the real deal. Prepare to meet the good stuff…
You glow, girl
Not just a holiday romance, once you invest in this you won’t be going back. The price might sting a bit, but you’ll use it daily and the results are totally worth it – plus it sits just right either on or underneath your make-up (beach club stamina… yesss!).
Feel the benefit
Kiss goodbye to unnecessary shine with your new matte powder BFF from Benefit. More for day-to-day use than tanning it up on the beach due to the low SPF, it’s got just the right amount of coverage. It also comes with a handy mirror, brush and sponge for in-transit application. Smart!
One-time thing
Doing what it says on the tin (UVA and UVB protection), Ultrasun is literally the ultimate summer product. At SPF 50, and with a ‘once a day’ application rule (not to mention, it's water resistance), you can forget re-application stress. Plus, it’s free from perfume and a bunch of other aggravators so even the most sensitive skin should be safe here. At 100ml, just add to your hand luggage.
Ultrasun Extreme SPF 50+ Sun Protection for Ultra Sensitive Skin, £22
In it for the long haul
Frequent flyers raise your hands because there’s literally no better way to hide the jet lag than with a lightweight eye cream targeting those dark circles. It’s a low SPF at 15, but that means it’s ideal for everyday use behind the safety of your sunnies, but not in hotter climes.
Go the distance
Mist by name and mist by nature, this Pixi hun definitely lived up to its title. Forget about blocked pores and sweat-induced stingy eyes because this spray provides all the protection you need (SPF 30 to be exact) without being too heavy. Plus it smells like heaven.
