Sensitive Skin: What Sun Protection Should I Use On Holiday

Plagued by sensitive skin? Dreading sun burn at the merest sign of summer? Irritated by sun protection products? The answer lies in choosing the right suncare and backing it up with daily lifestyle choices.

• Can I have both high SPF and gentle protection?
For those of us unfortunate enough to have sensitive skin, it is a constant battle between avoiding getting a sun burn on hot days and limiting how much we irritate our skin with powerful sunblocks. Yet it is possible to have the best of both worlds, if you choose your sun protection carefully. By opting for zinc or titanium-based creams, and note the term “sunblock” rather than “sunscreen”, you can rest easy in the knowledge that your skin is completely shielded from harmful UV rays. You are also safe from any irritation, given that these products are gentle on the skin.

• Selecting the right sun protection
Sun creams come in all shapes and sizes, and while all of them offer general UV protection, it is a good idea to look for a broad-spectrum product. This guards against both UVA and UVB rays, both of which can cause long-term damage to the skin. Garnier Ambre Solaire offers a great Sensitive Advanced range providing SPF 50+ suncare specially designed for sensitive skin. Those with sensitive skin are invariably more prone to sun burn, which, beyond the temporary pain and inconvenience, can have long-lasting effects on how fast your skin ages. This is why it is safest to plump for a powerful SPF 50 sunblock.

• Give your skin what it needs
Sensitive skin can be calmed by all manner of good habits, leading to a healthier glow and even enhancing your sun cream’s effectiveness. Staying hydrated is an essential element of skin health, especially when you are in a scorching environment or subjecting your skin to lots of sun. You should also think carefully about moisturising both day and night, using a sensitive-skin lotion or cream that will nourish your skin without irritating it. This will make it stronger and more able to fight off sun damage.