These days, we are all very aware of the importance of protecting our faces daily from the harmful effects of UVA and HEVL (High Energy Visible Light), even if the sun isn’t shining. Broad-spectrum SPF should now be a non-negotiable part of your daily skincare routine. It’s one of the best ways to help prevent your skin from ageing. A daily facial sunscreen is recommended for all ages – but what if you’re already experiencing fine lines and wrinkles?
I want a facial sunscreen that will protect and prevent UV damage to my skin but will also help to diminish existing signs of ageing…
Wearing a broad-spectrum SPF every day will help slow down your skin’s ageing process, but if you’ve jumped on the sun protection wagon a little bit late, it’s likely that you’ve already experienced sun damage. Fear not, there’s been an influx of facial sunscreens aimed specifically at skin which is already showing signs of ageing. This new generation of sun defence will not only protect your face from further sun damage but will also tackle existing fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation.
What you need to look for…
A basic SPF won’t cut it. Broad-spectrum SPFs and a high level of UVA is non-negotiable. Look for the UVA circle on the front of the packaging to be sure the UVA level is high enough. And if you’re still unsure, tweet us.
You also need to look for are formulas that will help to reverse the common signs of photo-ageing. These will usually contain antioxidants and photolyase enzymes to help reverse specific DNA mutations caused by UVA light. Look for terms such as anti-wrinkle or anti-ageing on the bottle and I’d recommend a minimum of SPF50 to give you a high level of protection.
When should I use it?
The key thing to remember with a facial SPF is that it should be worn every day – no excuses! If you’re inside or outside – it should be part of your daily skincare routine. After cleansing, apply your serums and moisturisers. Sun protection should be your last step before applying makeup. Apply around half a teaspoon to your face, making sure to cover your face and neck entirely.
Which anti-ageing sunscreen is right for me?
I’ve made it my mission over the past few weeks to try every single anti-ageing SPF I could get my hands on to bring you the best of the best. Whether you love high-tech skincare or you prefer a more sustainable approach, I have a facial SPF to fit your needs.
#1 The Scientific SPF
The Essentials:
• SPF 50
• Broad-spectrum
• Chemical-based sun protection
• High UVA protection
• HEVL protection
Texture:
• Cream
Finish:
• Radiant
Eucerin are renowned for their scientific approach to skincare and the Photoageing Control Sun Fluid SPF50 is no exception. What I love about this one is the fact it absorbs really quickly, it’s fragrance-free and it leaves a matte finish that’s perfect for wearing under makeup. Ideal for skin showing signs of ageing, it protects skin cells deeper down than most facial SPFs and will also aid with daily skin renewal thanks to the antioxidant licorice extract and glycyrrhetnic acid included in the formula. And, if that wasn’t enough, it will also help to plump out any existing wrinkles thanks to a dose of hyaluronic acid. This is the one I turn to if I’m wearing base makeup.
#2 The Tinted SPF
The Essentials:
• SPF 50+
• Broad-spectrum
• Chemical-based sun protection
• Contains Avene-exclusive ingredient Ascofilline™ to reduce fine lines and boost skin collagen
• High UVA Protection
• Suitable for sensitive skin
Texture:
• Cream
Finish:
• Tinted, light coverage with an illuminated glow
If it has the word tinted on it, I’m all over it. Anything that’s going to allow me to get away with skipping foundation these days goes straight into my beauty stash. I’m a big fan of Avene B-Protect because of the additional coverage it offers, and their latest anti-ageing formula has got me rather excited!
On application, it feels creamy and hydrating and gives light coverage and healthy glow that will even out your complexion as well as shield your skin from the sun. It will also help to brighten your complexion thanks to added antioxidant, vitamin C while pesky fine lines and your skin’s natural collagen are boosted by Avene’s prized and exclusive ingredient, Ascofilline. I’ll let you into a little secret, this is my new favourite facial SPF and my favourite of the bunch because it has everything I love in one product!
#3 The Eco-Friendly SPF
The Essentials:
• SPF 50
• Broad-spectrum
• High UVA protection
• HEVL protection
• Suitable for sensitive skin
• No nano-particles, no silicones, no alcohol and non-comedogenic
Texture:
• Non-sticky cream
Finish:
• Hydrated and glowing
Containing no oxybenzone, octinoxate or nanoparticle filters which can be harmful to oceans, Caudalie Anti-Wrinkle Face Suncare SPF50 is a physical sunscreen. It protects skin from the sun while helping to reverse the signs of ageing while helping to preserve the environment (it’s also vegan, too). I don’t know about you, but I think that’s pretty impressive. It uses Caudalie’s unique filter system, including a patented antioxidant complex which uses grape polyphenols to ward off wrinkles as well as protect from sun damage.
I love the smell too, its frangipani scent reminds me of sunny days. Consistency-wise, it has a fairly thick white texture – but don’t let that put you off. It absorbs quickly and easily into the skin and leaves a non-greasy and non-sticky finish.
Like the sound of Caudalie sun care? We’ve tried and tested the full collection. Read our review to find out more.
Over to you…
Do you have a suncare question for us? Join in the conversation using the hashtag #AskEscentual Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and we’ll answer it for you!
Discover More:
• How To Fit SPF In Your Daily Routine
• SPF Terms Made Simple
