Sun Advice with Dr. Hiva Fassihi from La Roche-Posay

Sunscreens are designed to protect the skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation (UVR). In the short term, they protect from painful sunburn. In the long term, they help prevent skin cancer and slow down premature skin-aging. They are important for skin health and are the ‘best anti-ageing product you’ll use’. However, for optimal protection, sunscreens must be used in conjunction with sensible sun-exposure behaviour, specifically avoiding the mid-day sun and keeping covered with a hat and appropriate clothing.

When choosing a sunscreen, it is important to look for a high SPF value, such as 30 or 50+, and the circled UVA logo. This means that the product will give the best possible protection again sunburn and skin cancers, and will also protect against UVA radiation which causes skin aging. The amount of UVA and UVB protection a sunscreen provides is related to how thickly it is applied onto the skin, so be generous with your sunscreen application.

I encourage my patients to wear their sunscreen every day, regardless of how bright and sunny it appears outside. It is important to remember that UVA, the main cause of skin aging, is present all year round, even on dull days. With the broad range of textures and formulations now available, it has never been easier to incorporate a sunscreen into your daily skin care routine. Moreover, the newer spray-on mists which can be applied over makeup allow convenient topping-up during the day without disturbing your makeup.

Yes, the sun cream for your face should be suited to your skin type. A non-comedogenic formula can be used by individuals prone to acne and a moisturising texture for those with dry sensitive skin. Tinted formulations are better suited to those with more pigment in their skin. The sunscreen should be applied generously after cleansing in the mornings. Care should be taken to cover all exposed parts of the face and neck, including the delicate skin under the eyes. After waiting 20 minutes for the preparation to fully absorb into the skin, then makeup can be applied on top.

I would probably suggest the Anthelios XL Ultra Light Fluid SPF50+ which feels invisible when applied, designed for combination skin. The new Invisible Face Mist SPF50+ is also very light with anti-shine technology. It is used as a top-up formulation which is easy to reapply throughout the day, even over makeup.

The Anthelios range of sunscreens from La Roche-Posay offers a broad selection of products for all skin types, suitable for adults and children, with high factor and broad spectrum of UVA-UVB protection. There are a variety of textures, with or without a tint, allowing you to pick the perfect product for your skin type. La Roche Posay is committed to working alongside dermatologists in the design and development of their sunscreen range. The brand is also involved in ‘Safe-Sun Initiatives’ and in raising ‘Skin Cancer Awareness’ around the world with a number of successful campaigns such as the ‘Skin Checker’, launched in 2015.