One of the most important products to pack in our suitcase and beach bag this summer has to be the all important SPF…
The sun’s rays can cause a whole range of nasties from sunburn (ouch!), premature ageing of the skin (we certainly don’t want that mamas!) and much more seriously, skin cancer.
When choosing an SPF, it’s really important to ensure it contains both UVA and UVB Broad Spectrum Protection. UVA protects from premature ageing including fine lines, wrinkles, age spots and other skin discolouration. UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn and are particularly damaging to the skin’s outer layer.
It’s also worth noting that UVA can pass through window glass and penetrate deep into layers of the skin, so it’s equally important to slather that lotion on even if you’re not heading to the beach for the day. Make it a part of you and your little one’s daily routine mamas!
We’ve done the hard work so you don’t have to and have rounded up some of our top SPF picks to take you throughout the summer and beyond…
With little people’s sensitive skin, we always choose a high factor. This factor 50 from natural and local homegrown brand, Herbal Essentials is one of our absolute faves because it offers zero nasties and a whole lot of protection! It also contains soothing jojoba and rosemary oil with hydrating Aloe Vera and is non-greasy and fast absorbing, making it a breeze to apply to children’s skin. With the addition of coconut and sweet orange, you’ll all smell delicious as well as protected! Priced at AED 145 and available from Boots, Herbal Essentials skincare kiosks in Arabian Center, Barsha Mall and Mercato Mall, as well as Life and Supercare pharmacies.
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This fun sun care brand is specially formulated for people who live and love in the sun, perfect for us residents of the UAE blessed with year-round sunshine! All of their sunscreens are water resistant, gluten and paraben free and offer UVA and UVB Broad Spectrum protection. We especially love the Baby Bum range which is all about clean and natural SPF 30 protection, specifically designed for the sensitive skin of babies. Available from Adventure HQ, Go Sports and Stadium.
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One for the mamas, this super-luxe SPF is formulated with innovative Trans dermic Technology and offers high UVA and UVB Broad Spectrum protection from the sun’s harmful rays, as well as offering a perfect base for makeup, it’s a win-win product! Due to its high concentration, only three drops are needed and can also be mixed with your daily facial moisturiser. Priced at AED 249 and available from all leading pharmacies across the UAE. Bye-bye wrinkles and sunspots!
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Full of organic goodness including shea butter, jojoba, rosehip and green tea, this Factor 25 is a great daily SPF to ensure protection from the sun while still getting a lovely, safe golden glow. Protecting the skin from both UVA and UVB rays, the sun cream also keeps skin nourished and hydrated whilst repairing and regenerating – genius! Priced at AED 245 and available from Harvey Nichols – Dubai and online at www.beautifulbrands.ae.
With all sunscreens, we recommend applying them liberally a minimum of 30 minutes prior to stepping out in the sun and don’t forget to re-apply generously every 2 hours mamas! Especially after pool or beach time!
Happy holidays and stay safe in the sun!
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Featured Image Photo by Asso Myron on Unsplash
