Simone Gannon: My picks for the best sunscreen for every skin type

It is somewhat incredible to be still writing about the effects of UV damage in the hopes that those who shun sunscreen will change their mind, but here we are.

The fact of the matter is that not enough of us are wearing sunscreen. Lloyds Pharmacy conducted a research study in 2021 and found that just 34 per cent of the adult population wear sunscreen when it is sunny. This figure drops to 16 per cent when it is not sunny.

Why is wearing sunscreen important? Well, consider this: more than 13,000 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed in Ireland every year, as reported by the Irish Cancer Society. Nine out of every 10 cases are attributed to UV rays from the sun and more horrifyingly, sunbeds. These numbers underscore the critical importance of daily sunscreen application – and, it goes without saying that sunbeds should be avoided at all costs. A recent study in a dermatology journal highlighted this point, revealing that out of a group of 63 women diagnosed with skin cancer before the age of 30, 61 of them had used sunbeds.

While skin cancer understandably garners much attention as the scariest consequence of prolonged exposure to UV rays, it is important to recognise that they are also the villain in the story of overall skin health. UV rays are the leading cause of premature ageing, specifically fine lines and wrinkles, saggy, dull, leathery skin, increased redness, liver spots, sun spots and darkened pigmentation patches.

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UV radiation is not just a warm-weather concern. Even on cloudy days or during winter months, UV rays can penetrate clouds and reflect off surfaces, causing damage to exposed skin – and you’re not safe indoors, either. Standard glass windows do not offer protection against UV radiation. UVA rays can penetrate glass, meaning you’re still at risk of skin damage while near a window.

This all sounds very dramatic, I know, but it’s the reality we face. As a nation, we are falling short when it comes to sunscreen use, and it’s baffling. Particularly when we consider the significant strides made in sunscreen formulations. Gone are the days of thick, sticky, expensive sunscreens that take days to blend in and leave an obvious white, chalky residue on the skin.

Today, the formulas available are sophisticated, efficient, widely available and affordable. Feather-light, glowy, oil-controlling options, often enriched with great ingredients for the skin. It is easier than ever to find one you like – which is crucial, because the best sunscreen for you is one you actually like wearing every day.

If you are overwhelmed by the multitude of choices on the market, fear not. I’ve pulled together several recommendations that offer broad-spectrum protection at wallet-friendly prices.

Thank You Farmer Sun Project Water Sun Cream SPF50 (€22.60 from cultbeauty.com), and CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50 (€18 from Boots) are brilliant, everyday all-rounders. Both are packed with skin-loving ingredients, take seconds to apply and feel delightfully light, making them particularly great for dry or sensitive skin.

For oily and combination skin, Q&A Niacinamide SPF50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen (€18 from Chemist Warehouse) and Supergoop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF30 (€39 from cultbeauty.com) are both great options. They hydrate, brighten and balance oil in the skin while minimising the look of pores. No sticky residue or chalky hue on the skin.

Reapplication is just as important as application. Whether you’re out and about during the day or exposed to indirect sunlight, it is crucial to reapply your sunscreen every two hours – more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Sculpted by Aimee Sun Mist SPF50 (€22 from sculptedbyaimee.com) and Ultrasun SPF50 Mist (€38 for 150ml from lookfantastic.com) are both 10/10 for this. Dry-touch, transparent mists that provide a cool, barely detectable veil of coverage and work beautifully over make-up.

Sunscreen sticks are great, too. A hassle-free way to reapply sunscreen to the face, neck, chest, arms, and any other exposed skin. It’s important that your sun stick of choice is not sticky, greasy, or disruptive to any existing products on the skin, which is why I love Hello Sunday Invisible Sun Stick (€22 from Space NK) and Supergoop! Sheerscreen Glow Stick (€25 from cultbeauty.com).

Finally, a special mention to a product that works hard to protect your hairline and scalp from the sun and doubles up as a rather wonderful dry shampoo: Supergoop! (Re) Setting 100% Mineral Powder SPF30 (€34 from Space NK).

This week I’m loving ... Act+Acre Cold Processed Scalp Detox

A gorgeous launch from Irish-born brand Act+Acre, Cold Processed Scalp Detox (€45 from beautyfeatures.ie) is a pre-cleanse oil that gently removes build-up and dead skin cells, while balancing and moisturising the scalp. It is lightweight and luxurious and leaves no trace once washed out.