6 SPF Products You Need for Summer 2016
From primers and skin tints to waterproof sunscreens and oh-so-luxe formulas, these SPF guards will shield you from the blazing sun.
Living in the tropical paradise that is Singapore has its perks but with it comes year-long sweltering heat and a whole lot of sun, which brings us to the importance of slathering on that SPF. Its benefits go beyond protection against skin cancer; it also prevents premature ageing and skin discoloration. Here, we bring you six SPF-loaded products that will save your skin, sans the weight and oily texture.
Shiseido Perfect UV Protector S SPF50+/PA++++ ($63)
Ever get the nagging suspicion that you didn’t even out your sunscreen application? You don’t have to worry with this sunscreen as it uses the Super Veil-V 360 technology, which is said to help form a protective layer even over the tiniest bumps and depressions in your skin so nothing gets missed. There’s also the Wetforce technology which reportedly strengthens this protective layer when it comes into contact with water or perspiration, making this product waterproof and ideal for the beach, water sports or just very humid days. As this sunscreen is free of parabens, alcohol and fragrances, it is suitable for sensitive skin and even young children.
Laura Mercier Foundation Primer – Protect Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen/PA+++ ($55)
Its name may be a mouthful but that’s only because this oil-free creamy gel is one super multi-tasker. While it protects skin from sun damage, it also primes your complexion for a smoother, more flawless makeup application and keeps your foundation looking fresh for longer. The formula also uses vitamins A and E for their conditioning benefits. And because it’s dermatologist-tested and not made with fragrances or oil, it’s ideal for sensitive skin.
YSL Beauté Or Rouge UV Protection SPF 50/PA+++ ($179)
The luxury Or Rouge skincare line gets its anti-ageing powers from the pistil of the saffron flower from the Moroccan Atlas mountains. Recently, YSL Beauté discovered that saffron also has a unique glycan with anti-pollution properties. Just the thing an all-rounder sunscreen needs to protect skin from all sorts of UVA and UVB damage. The texture doesn’t disappoint either. For those of us who have become well-acquainted with the lightest of sunscreens, this one ups the game further by melting on skin and making it matte, smooth and radiant.
Chanel UV Essentiel Multi-Protection Daily Defender SPF30/PA+++ and UV ESSENTIEL Multi-Protection Daily Defender SPF50+/PA+++ ($85 each)
There’s a lot going on inside our skin cells. For instance, certain proteins known as SPRRs help to protect skin from external stressors. But these SPRRs can lose their potency after skin has been exposed to environmental aggressors for a long time. In comes tiare flower, which, the Chanel labs have discovered, stimulates SPRRs, even under long-term stress. You’ll get the flower extract in the brand’s choice of two sunscreens, which are said to keep skin plump and radiant.
Estée Lauder Crescent White Full Cycle Brightening UV Protector SPF50/PA++++ ($86)
This gives you the best of both worlds: it has a high SPF but comes in a light, easy-to-blend texture. The use of powerful antioxidants in the formula means that this sunscreen can protect skin from oxidative damage and prevent spots from forming. Plus, it has soothing anti-irritants to calm skin – some studies have discovered that inflamed skin can be more prone to hyperpigmentation.
Nars Velvet Matte Skin Tint SPF30/PA+++ ($70)
Available in nine shades, this gives skin a soft-focus effect by blurring out imperfections with something known as Transparent Blurring Powders. You’ll get a natural finish coupled with a velvety feel. And because the formula is sheer enough, you can use this tint on its own if you don’t need or like too much coverage.
This article first appeared on L’Officiel Singapore.