RUBY RECOMMENDS | SUNSCREENS FOR ALL SKIN TONES

Let's be honest - there is nothing worse than splurging on sunscreen only to be left looking like a ghost for the rest of the day! Fortunately, formulations have come on leaps and bounds, with many options on the market now providing great protection without that dreaded white cast. 

No matter what colour your skin, gender, or age (once you are over 6 months), everyone benefits from wearing sun protection. You should re-apply or refresh every two hours, especially if you are outside enjoying the sunshine or in and out of water. 

There are two main types of sunscreen:

Physical: Minerals which block and scatter the rays before they penetrate the skin.

Chemical: Ingredients which absorb UV rays before they damage your skin.

Both have their pros & cons, so choosing between the two is based on personal preference. Mineral sunscreens are great for immediate protection & suitable for sensitive skin types, but are also more prone to leaving a white cast, especially on deeper skin tones. Chemical sunscreens generally have lighter texture, but can cause problems for sensitive skin and aren’t always reef-safe.

I’d recommend looking for formulas with UVA and UVB protection, and opt for SPF 30+. I always use Factor 50+ on my face and at least Factor 30 on my body.

My go-to sunscreens, that don't leave a white cast:

• La Roche Posay Anthelios
• Vichy Capital Soleil Solar Protective Water SP
• Hello Sunday 'The Everyday One' Face Moisturiser
• Caudalie Suncare (the whole range is reef-safe) 

Top Tip: If you wearing makeup over your sunscreen, ensure you let it set for a few minutes before applying foundation. This gives it time to soak in to the skin pre-foundation application. 

Like all skincare, it’s only useful if you use it! So no matter what SPF you choose, just ensure you are wearing something.