Louise McSharry: My four go-to SPFs when you're looking for more than just sun protection
I would never give up on you, though, and I'm sure that you would never dream of willingly burning or damaging your skin in the sun. Neither would I! So, let's talk about sun cream. At home, I tend to use whatever sun cream I have on the go for the kids, but if I'm going on holidays, I like to treat myself to something a little more grown up. With that in mind, here are some of my favourites.
1. Hawaiian Tropic Hydrating Protection Sunscreen Lotion (€22 via boots.ie) — This has been a go-to for me for many years, thanks to it being a pleasure to use and reasonably friendly on the wallet (it's frequently on special offer; the price here is the maximum you should expect to pay). This formula is beautifully hydrating via cocoa and shea butter, and I usually leave a holiday significantly more moisturised than I've arrived as a result. It's not sticky or greasy. Instead, it feels like a normal body lotion. Plus, its tropical scent gets you straight into the holiday vibe.
2. Nuxe Sun Oil Gold Shimmer High Protection (€33 via boots.ie) — It's hard for me to choose one product from Nuxe's sun protection range, because I am such a fan of them all, but this gal is definitely worth highlighting. If you're going to a wedding or special event, this product will keep you safe from the sun while delivering beautifully gleaming skin with flecks of golden shimmer. Nuxe products smell delicious, and this is no exception, with notes of sweet orange, Tiaré flower and vanilla.
3. Kopari Sunglaze Sheer Body Mist SPF30 (€41.40 via spacenk.com) — This light spray delivers sun protection and glamour via a gorgeous coconut scent and light sheen. It dries quickly and is comfortable to wear, and I particularly like its spray bottle, which functions well and applies product evenly. It's also just pretty, almost like an accessory for the pool.
4. Bondi Sands Hydra UV Protect SPF 50+ (€9.35 via rosscarberypharmacy.ie) — This is another winner in the texture category thanks to its light formula, which feels more like a moisturiser than an SPF. It functions as a moisturiser too, leaving the skin soft and hydrated, and is fragrance-free for those of you who prefer that.
Lost in translation
Ginseng is an ingredient frequently seen on skincare packaging, but why is it so popular? Ginseng root has been reported to have anti-ageing, skin-whitening, anti-wrinkle and moisturising effects among other things, making it an ideal raw material for skincare products. Some research also indicates that the presence of ginseng can also reduce inflammation and improve skin elasticity. Aside from that, ginseng holds significant cultural importance in Korea, making it extra appealing for skincare brands from that part of the world.
Something old…
If you are unfamiliar with the phrase keratosis pilaris, you probably don't have it. This skin condition results in bumpy, rough skin, usually on the upper arms, thighs or bum, and while harmless, is unpleasant for many of those who experience it. Fortunately, there are lots of products to reduce its impact, mostly via gentle exfoliation. Byoma's Smoothing Body Polish (€14.68 via cultbeauty.com) and Smoothing Body Serum (€15.81 via spacenk.com) work well on their own, or as a pair, thanks to ingredients like exfoliating succinic acid and nourishing panthenol. Fortunately, Byoma's prices are relatively reasonable, so testing these guys out won't hit your bank account too hard. As with any skincare product, consistency is key if you want to get results, so regular use of the body polish in the shower and body serum afterwards is your best bet.
... Something new
Joonbyrd is a bodycare brand founded by dermatologist Dr Alexis Granite, who's love of beauty products goes back to exploring her grandmother's makeup collection. That love, along with her expertise from decades working with patients on their skin challenges, has resulted in joyfully packaged, very effective products. Joonbyrd's latest launch is Kaleidoscope Body Serum (€88 for 100ml via spacenk.com), a lightweight serum which delivers gentle exfoliation to smooth and brighten the skin as well as delivering hydration. This product is ideal for anyone who struggles with keratosis pilaris, aka chicken skin. The presence of azelaic and shikimic acid gently exfoliate, while nourishing ingredients like blueberry seed oil ensure the skin is left soft and supple. This is not an inexpensive product though, so you may wish to try the 15ml size (€22 via spacenk.com) before investing in the large bottle.
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