Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 70, 3 Ounce

Product Information

Under ideal conditions (like in a laboratory), a sunscreen with higher SPF protection and broad-spectrum coverage offers more protection against sunburn, UVA damage and DNA damage than comparable products with lower SPF values. Things are finally hotting up in the UK so it’s a good job that we’ve been trialing the most effective sun protection creams so you don’t have to. Sheer, clear, and coral-reef friendly, the following sun screens for face and body are worth your pennies.

The study, published online April 1 in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, cites the use of sunscreen with a minimum sun protection factor (SPF) of 70. It probably won't surprise you to hear the answer to this one is yes. "The sun's rays can be damaging anywhere," confirms Roest. You can also develop sun-related skin damage at any time of the year. "We receive about 10 per cent of our total yearly UV exposure during the winter months, so the harmful effects of the sun are much reduced during this period, but it is still important to protect your skin. What if I tan easily, and don't burn? SPFs are rated on a scale of 2 to 50+ based on the level of protection they offer, with 50+ offering the strongest form of UVB protection. If your skin type allows you to stay in the sun for 10 minutes without burning, then most commonly, wearing SPF50 will indicate that your skin will be protected for 50 times longer, so 500 minutes," explains consultant dermatologist Maria Roest. "This of course is dependent on your skin and specific level of sensitivity. It's also important to remember to avoid spending too much time in the sun when it is at its hottest, between 11am and 3pm."UVA rays cause skin damage that leads to tanning as well as skin aging and wrinkles. The shortest wavelengths of UVA rays also contribute to sunburn. It’s important to look for the words “broad spectrum” on a product’s label, which means it has ingredients that can protect you from UVA as well as UVB rays. There are two types of sun protection filters - chemical filters and physical filters,” advises dermatologist Dr Emma Wedgeworth. Chemical filters absorb UV rays like a sponge, thereby reducing the risk of cellular damage. Physical filters act to reflect and scatter UV. Sunscreens with SPF 70 and above add additional clinical benefits when applied by consumers at typically used amounts, by delivering an actual SPF that meets the minimum SPF levels recommended for skin cancer and photodamage prevention," the authors wrote. "In contrast, sunscreens with SPF 30 or 50 may not produce sufficient protection at actual consumer usage levels."

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for any extended outdoor activity. Regardless of the SPF, though, it’s important to apply one ounce (two tablespoons) 30 minutes before going outside and reapply it every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating. Beyond Sunscreen UVA protection can also be indicated by the letters "UVA" in a circle, which indicates that it meets the EU standard. The SPF number tells you how long the sun’s UV radiation would take to redden your skin when using the product exactly as directed versus the amount of time without any sunscreen. So ideally, with SPF 30 it would take you 30 times longer to burn than if you weren’t wearing sunscreen. Sunscreen should be reapplied straight after you have been in water, even if it's "water resistant", and after towel drying, sweating or when it may have rubbed off. Children and sun protection

How does sunscreen work ?

SPF 30 or higher: "Always look for a sun protection factor of at least SPF 30," says Dr. Yadav. The AAD also suggests SPF 30 for the best protection. For even more peace of mind, the GH Beauty Lab recommends looking for SPF 50.

Get tips on preventing and treating heat exhaustion in hot weather Who should take extra care in the sun? If you're worried you might not be applying enough SPF30, you could use a sunscreen with a higher SPF. Do not spend any longer in the sun than you would without sunscreen. What are the SPF and star rating?

When and how do I put it on?

Sun protection creams will help to keep your skin protected from sun damage as well as minimise the ageing effects of the sun (along with a large hat and seeking shade, of course). Brands have modernised sun lotion into new, less Casper-the-ghost like formulas and they are better than ever. Here is everything you need to know about SPF and the new tried and tested sun creams the Telegraph beauty team swear by. What is SPF? Sunscreen needs to be reapplied liberally and frequently, and according to the manufacturer's instructions. It's also recommended to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, as the sun can dry it off your skin. Swimming and sunscreen These two types of filter work in different ways to shield the skin from UV rays, as Dr. Sophie Shotter explains. "Chemical filters absorb the rays. Think of these filters as little sponges that collect the rays, stopping them from entering your skin and damaging it. Mineral filters, often referred to as ‘physical filters’, deflect the rays. Think of them as a bat, hitting them away before they can enter the skin."

Painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, will ease the pain by helping to reduce inflammation caused by sunburn. A day at the beach without proper eye protection can cause a temporary but painful burn to the surface of the eye, similar to sunburn. It's illegal for people under the age of 18 to use sunbeds, including in tanning salons, beauty salons, leisure centres, gyms and hotels. Another factor to consider is that UVA rays can travel through glass, so it's important to wear SPF when you're sat near a window during the day. How much sun cream is enough?

The best face SPFs at a glance:

Broad-spectrum coverage, i.e. both UVA and UVB, is recommended for all skin types and should be in the range of SPF 15-30 for both lighter and darker skin tones,” advises Mammone. Those who have a darker skin tone require less protection from UVB rays (which causes burning), they still need adequate UVA to protect against skin cancer and ageing. Invest the time in finding a formulation that feels comfortable on your skin, and wear it daily. ​What should you look for on an SPF label?