The Best La Roche-Posay SPF Products
We all know to apply SPF when we're sunbathing on the beach, but did you know that you should actually wear it every day, all year round? That's because around 90% of skin ageing comes from the sun's UV rays, making sun cream the ultimate anti-ageing measure.
There's a misconception that sunscreens are thick, heavy formulas that feel uncomfortable, which is why lots of us choose to avoid them. This is where La Roche-Posay and their extensive range of sun care formulas come in.
La Roche-Posay SPF products are kind to the skin and ultra-protective. Each formula is dermatologically tested, so you can rest assured these products have the approval of skincare experts. This guide will explain why SPF is so important, and introduce the best SPF products from La Roche-Posay. Click on one of the links below to jump to that section:
Why is SPF important and how does it work?
The sun has different types of UV rays which cause different damage. UVB rays (the ones that cause tanning) vary in strength depending on the season, time of day and location. However, the sun's UVA rays remain consistent in their strength through all daylight hours. It's these rays that cause sun damage at a cellular level and over time lead to lines, wrinkles, rough patches and pigmentation.
SPF stands for 'sun protection factor' and is a measure of how much protection from UVB rays a sunscreen will offer your skin. It's recommended by experts that you opt for an SPF level of 30 to block 97% of UVB rays. You can go lower or higher, depending on what protection your skin requires; SPF15 blocks 93% of UVB while SPF50 blocks out 98%. Selecting an SPF product that protects against UVA and UVB rays offers your skin the very best chance of protection.
There are two types of sun protection available: chemical and physical. Chemical sunscreen uses ingredients that absorb UV rays before they can penetrate your skin. These can generally be made with a lightweight formula, making them great for those with oily or acne-prone skin. On the other hand, mineral sunscreen is commonly formulated with titanium dioxide or zinc oxide that sit on your skin's surface and reflect away the UV rays. These are often a little thicker in formulation but are less irritating, so are a perfect for sensitive skin.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios range
La Roche-Posay knows that one formula doesn't suit all. As with any type of skincare, there needs to be nuances in texture and formulation for different skin types. With SPF being such an important step in your skincare routine, it's crucial that you find a lotion you're happy to apply every day. La Roche-Posay have developed their Anthelios range to do just that.
Each product in the range is non-perfumed and paraben-free for use on the most sensitive of skin. Their unique combination of Mexoplex, Mexoryl XL and Mexoryl SX offers an ultra-high level of sun protection, while their signature La Roche-Posay Thermal Spring Water works to soften, soothe and repair the skin
Anthelios Stick SPF50
This precision stick is ideal for ensuring you've got all those hard to reach, overexposed areas covered. Perfect for protecting the eyes, lips, ears, nose, moles and scars, it's a great choice for those who are sensitive to the sun or require an extra level of protection.
Anthelios Anti Shine Cream SPF50+
With SPF50+ protection, this water-resistant cream provides some of the best sun care for the skin you can get. Its innovative dry touch texture absorbs immediately and leaves no white residue or greasy feeling, making it the ultimate SPF for oily skin. If you like to combine your skincare and makeup, this cream also comes as a tinted sunscreen.
Anthelios Ultra-Light Body Mist SPF50+
If you’re after something quick and easy to use, opt for the Anthelios Ultra-Light Body Mist. Suitable for the face and body, it has a super lightweight formula that absorbs quickly and is invisible on the skin. In fact, the mist is so light and undetectable that it can be applied over makeup. Specially formulated for sensitive skin, it has a very high level of SPF50+ UV protection.
Anthelios Dermo Baby Lotion SPF50+
Protect the whole family with this SPF50+ sunscreen lotion, offering unbeatable UVA, UVB and infrared protection. The comfortable, soothing formula can be used on all skin types, from delicate baby skin to adults prone to sensitivity or dryness. Key ingredient shea butter helps to nourish and care for the skin, offering both sun and skincare benefits.
Posthelios Gel
As well as caring for your skin whilst you're in the sun, you need to ensure you are repairing it afterwards, too. This soothing after-sun gel melts into the skin, easing any hot sensations and repairing the skin barrier. A blend of lipid-restoring agents works to strengthen damaged skin. The lightweight, gel texture is non-comedogenic, meaning it can be used on both the face and body without clogging the pores.
Other La Roche-Posay SPF products
As well as the Anthelios range of dedicated sun care, many of La Roche-Posay’s best-selling products contain SPF to make it even easier to get your daily dose of sun protection.
Effaclar Duo+ SPF30
This iconic treatment for oily and blemished skin also includes sun protection benefits, thanks to the addition of SPF30. Clinically proven to reduce spots, prevent breakouts and unclog pores with a blend of LHAs, salicylic acid and niacinamide, this is an essential for acne-prone skin.
Pigmentclar UV SPF30
Do you suffer from a dull complexion and dark spots? This day cream contains a powerhouse of active ingredients that work to tackle pigmentation and restore a brighter, clearer complexion. Sun damage is a key contributor to pigmentation, which is why this formula is also infused with SPF30 protection.
Hydreane BB Cream
Upgrade your daily foundation or tinted moisturiser to this effective BB Cream with SPF20. Combining skincare and makeup, it offers a natural coverage for an even complexion. The smooth texture is non-greasy and won't clog pores, but works to add moisture and hydration to the skin. It is available in the shades light and medium.
Frequently asked questions
How much SPF do you need for your face?
SPF should be applied liberally to offer the level of protection on the bottle. As a rough guide, you should apply two finger-lengths worth of product to cover your face, neck, ears and décolletage.
How do you apply sunscreen to your face correctly?
You should always apply sunscreen evenly across the face, rubbing it in until it's no longer visible. Don't forget to cover those easily missed spots, including the eyelid, ears and lips.
Should you apply sunscreen before or after moisturiser?
SPF should always be the last step of your morning skincare regime, so it should come after moisturiser. You should also try to reapply every two hours, so if you're wearing makeup, a lightweight mist is recommended.