Compounding the problem is the fact that many foundations now contain sunscreen, and that this may protect only against UVB rays. Since most sunscreens lose their protective action during the course of the day, when the protective ingredients break down in UV light, a foundation is unlikely to provide solid protection for the facial skin during the summer. Nonetheless, many women feel they are protected by their foundation and so skip the sunscreen. (Wearing a foundation that contains sunscreen is still a good idea, however, as it can provide extra protection.)

To help you protect your facial skin against UV light, Ombrelle® has introduced three light-textured sunscreens, with an SPF of either 30, 45 or 60. All three formulations contain Mexoryl ® SX and Mexoryl® XL for day-long protection against UVA rays, as well as vitamins E and B5 for their additional antioxidant protection and moisturizing effects on the skin. To ensure these products are suitable for even the most sensitive facial skin, they are non-greasy, hypoallergenic, and free of fragrance and colourants.

The Ombrelle® range of sunscreens also includes waterproof Ombrelle® Sport sunscreens, Ombrelle® Kids for children, and a full range of sunscreen creams, sprays and lotions for regular use. You can find the Ombrelle® product line in the sunscreen aisle at London Drugs.

Suncare specialist, La Roche-Posay, has recently launched a collection of products with ultimate sun protection and superior texture. The company points out that these formulations not only protect against the ravages of the sun, but also against a number of skin conditions precipitated or worsened by sunlight.

Ultimate Protection

The Anthelios range of suncare products includes high SPF, broad spectrum sunscreens such as Anthelios XL face and body cream and targeted protection stick, both with an SPF of 45 or 60. The cream and stick contain both Mexoryl® SX and Mexoryl® XL for long lasting protection against deeply penetrating UVA rays. Antherpos, a rich, emollient cream with an SPF of 50, provides the sensitive lip area with needed daily protection.

The sun not only damages the skin, causing premature wrinkling, development of age spots and, sometimes, cancers of the skin, but also impacts the immune system. The primary culprits are the deeply penetrating rays of UVA light. Sunlight can also cause your skin to burn more quickly— a condition known as photosensitization— if you are using certain medications and health supplements. (These include many antibiotics, diuretics, some pain medications including ibuprofen; various antidepressants and some heart medications. The popular health supplement, St. John’s Wort, also causes photosensitization. Anthelios XL face and body cream and stick help protect against sun allergies; solar urticaria (a rare form of hives caused by exposure to UV light); lupus erythematosus(an auto-immune disease); hyperpigmentation and chloasma (usually associated with pregnancy) and protects post-surgical scars from suninduced damage that can delay healing. Antherpos XL protects against cold sore (herpes simplex 1) breakout in the lip area.

Anthelios and Antherpos XL formulations are perfect for people who want to protect their skin and lips against sun damage, and ensure that the sun does not impact existing conditions such as the cold sore virus or hyperpigmentation. They are non-greasy, fragrance free, have a “cosmetic” texture and will not cause breakouts. You can find La Roche-Posay Anthelios, Antherpos and Autohelios formulations in the Specialty Skincare section of the London Drugs cosmetic department.