WHO KNEW? Mirrored sunnies can cause sunburn.

1Layer up The laziest way to work sunscreen into your routine: make sure that it’s incorporated into all of the products you’re already using (moisturiser, primer, foundation). Look for an SPF of at least 30, and apply it as liberally as you would a straight-up sunscreen – anything less would be pointless.

We like a weightless SPF30 makeup primer, like [1] Dolce & Gabbana Sheer Radiance Make Up Base SPF30 (R770), a souped-up tinted moisturiser with SPF50, like [2] Vichy Idéal Soleil Tan Optimizing Face Gel-fluid in Bronze (R199) and a hydrating formula with SPF30, like [3] Bioeffect Daytime Nourishing Day Cream (R690).

2If your skin acts like a baby, use baby sunscreen Sensitive skin? Dermatologists recommend sunscreens with physical (not chemical) blockers, like zinc oxide. And that’s where baby sunscreens come in. We like [4] Nivea Sun Kids Moisturising Sun Spray SPF50 (R179.99). It goes on white, but give it a minute and it becomes clear.

3Don’t just spritz your spray sunscreens Well, yes, spritz them, but don’t leave it at that. According to dermatologists, people don’t rub in spray formulas properly, which means you’ll only get streaky protection. In a well-ventilated area, hold the bottle around 3cm from your skin and spray, section by section, until your skin glistens, recommends dermatologist Dr Joshua Zeichner. Then, using your hands, blend it all in. Don’t treat it like perfume – you should be fully covered from head to toe. TRY [5] Tropitone Move It Sunscreen Continuous Spray SPF30 (R109.95).

4Wear clothing with extra UV protection It doesn’t have to look awkward. Sunprotective clothing can be glamorous, too. Go for a long-sleeved swimsuit, like the Mapale 3 Piece Rainbow Retro Bikini Set from fashionhub.co.za (R1 450). It’s flattering and great for protection against harmful UV rays.

Add a wide-brimmed hat that’s at least 10cm all the way around. This protects the scalp and the tops of the ears, where we often forget to apply sunscreen. These areas are particularly prone to developing skin cancers.

5Supersize your shades The ideal frames have polarised lenses with UV filters and they should be big enough to cover the skin around your eyes. Avoid anything reflective: mirrors may look cool, but they bounce UV light onto your cheeks which may, in turn, cause sunburn.

6Take it with you Toss sunscreen into all of your bags so that you’ll never be stuck without protection and can reapply every two hours. TRY [6] Pick n Pay Sun Sure Day To Day High Protection Sunstick SPF50 (R49.99). Worried about your makeup? Carry a cushion compact or brush-on mineral powder for midday touch-ups over makeup.