Sunscreen essentials

Everyone loves a sun-kissed look, but we all know that too much sun never is healthy. Today everyone is aware of the link between UV and skin cancer risk, but recent studies show that melanoma cancer rates still have increased by almost a third over the past decade in the UK. And around 17,000 cases of melanoma each year are actually preventable. That’s because almost 9 in 10 cases in the UK are caused by exposure to too much ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.

Today there are good apps that can help you keep track of the UV levels where you are, so make it a daily morning habit to check the UV index and protects yourself accordingly.

The three basic rules when you spend time outdoors on sunny locations are the same as always:

• Try to spend more time in the shade, especially between 11am and 3pm 

• Cover up with clothes, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-protection sunglasses. Don’t forget that a stylish wide-brimmed hat can also make you the center of attention. It’s a great fashion staple for beach life and after-beach drinks alike.

• Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and 4 or 5 stars generously and regularly.

Sunscreen has long been considered more of a chore than a luxury, but with new protective formulas sunscreens are better than ever. Applying sunscreen no longer means ghostly white finish and off-putting scent, and offer more elegance by way of a transparent appearance, weightless feel, and even the inclusion of nourishing ingredients. After all, diligent sunscreen application is easiest if you actually enjoy what you use—and these new innovative formulas have succeeded in making that happen.

Read more about the best current sunscreens in this article in Vogue.

Stay safe and look gorgeous!

Beth xo

A wide-brimmed hat is a great fashion statement - and protects your skin from the sun.