BEAUTY COUNTER The lazy person’s guide to suncare

SUN creams that promise all-day protection can be very effective – but only if you apply them correctly.

“Do it first thing, do it indoors and apply plenty,” says Abi Cleeve, MD of Ultrasun, who points out that applying sunscreen when you’re already in the sun increases evaporation, thereby reducing protection.

“Put it on at least 15 minutes before you go out and look for easy-to-miss bits around shoulder straps.” adquately protected from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays.

The good news is that these days unctuous lotions aren’t your only option when it comes to sunscreen.

Innovative technologies mean that you can now get all the SPF you need combined with skincare, make-up or even self-tan, if that’s what you’re after, and formulas are more long-lasting and user-friendly than ever.

Use these suncare short-cuts and quick tricks to take the stress out of sitting in the sunshine... WATER-RESISTANT sunscreen isn’t only needed by the pool or seaside, sunbathers – sweat can hamper the efficacy of your SPF. So if, for example, you’re a regular runner in summer, you need to be properly protected.

Shiseido has just revamped its suncare collection, so that all products use its clever WetForce Technology to form a water-repellent barrier when your skin comes into contact with moisture. IF you’re a beauty buff who wants ultra-effective skincare alongside SPF, the latest facial sunscreens will certainly float your boat.

With anti-ageing, acne and pollution-fighting formulas, these day creams really mean business. NEW from cult Aussie tanning brand Bondi Sands, Protect & Tan Oil is a world-first that combines factor 15 protection with DHA, meaning colour develops while you’re catching rays. That way, you can claim that your bronzed glow is purely the result of the sun. No-one ever need know the truth...

Looking to achieve a golden glow without sitting in the sun? These bronzers won’t leave you browned off