• Contains PR products

One item of my skincare I NEVER miss out of my routine is my SPF. I wear it daily – rain ,wind or shine . There is absolutely no point spending time and money on other areas of your routine if you are going to skip on the most important – your sun protection. The sun is a blessing but it can also be your worst enemy.

FACT • Short term sun damage presents as sunburn. Long term unprotected sun exposure causes gradual damage to skin known as sun damage or photoageing , and accounts for around 90% of the signs of skin-ageing.

I have recently ‘discovered’ a couple of SPF’s that I thought I’d share with you today, just in time for the heatwave . I have been using the Alpha H for the past 6/8 weeks … and the Institut Esthederm for the past year [ not exactly a new discovery Tracey !]

But first …I needed this today! If you live in Sheffield or fancy a trip out I can highly recommend Our Cow Molly . They serve THE best ice-cream, with the best views.

Anyway back to SPF – It is worth noting for review purposes that I never or rather I try not to put my face in direct sun light [ when I’m walking Mollie dog it can prove difficult ] . I will either sit in the shade or wear a big hat. I’m not someone who likes a hot, sweaty face; it makes me feel gross. I get my tan out of a bottle.

First off a brand I have mentioned before and I’m currently enjoying using – Alpha H. They have created two award winning moisturisers for daily use which contain broad spectrum sunscreens to help keep the skin protected against skin damage, pigmentation, reduced skin elasticity and degradation of the texture of the skin

ALPHA H • DAILY ESSENTIAL MOISTURISER SPF 50+
• Super lightweight 3-in-1 moisturiser
• UVA/UVB Sun Protector & Mattifying Primer
• Non -Whitening
• Non-greasy
• Non- comedogenic 
• Low irritant and water resistant

ALPHA H • PROTECTION PLUS DAILY SPF 50+
• Tinted 
• Broad Spectrum Cream
• Very High Protection
• Dual Function Sunscreen formulated to shield against harmful UVA / UVB rays 
• Non greasy
• Mattifying and won’t flashback on photos.
• Water Resistant

I am always wary of trying out new SPF’s as my temperamental skin often tends to break out. I am pleased to report no breakouts, just great PROTECTED skin.

I absolutely love them both . They are non greasy, lightweight and they soak into the skin with ease. They are both high factor at SPF 50+ which I prefer. The higher the better as far as I’m concerned. You apply on clean skin and wait 5 minutes before applying your makeup . If your skin is dry they recommend using your normal serum underneath the SPF to add moisture.

Both available on-line from Cult Beauty , Selfridge’s and ASOS

INSTITUT ESTHEDERM • Bronz Repair Sunkissed

Institut Esthederm is a brand inspired by professional aesthetics, inspired by life and sun living. I have used this SPF for a while now but for full disclosure I was also recently sent a tube via PR.

Bronz Repair Sunkissed Moderate Sun is an anti-wrinkle suncare product with a firming effect. This tinted version offers an immediate golden natural complexion. The skin is immediately unified, protected and looks younger. Recommended as your day cream during summer time. Comes in a universal shade and is non comedogenic.

• Protective Anti-Wrinkle & Firming Tinted Face Cream
• Tinted Suncare
• Provides high UVA & UVB protection
• Minimise the signs of photo-ageing and dark spots
• Soft, luxurious texture
• Smells absolutely delicious

There is confusingly no specific SPF level listed on the tube, on the packaging or online? I’m not sure why that is … it is something I would suggest they make clearer going forward. I messaged Institut Eshederm directly to question what the SPF was and this was their reply – ‘ Strong sun is the equivalent of SPF 25 minimum. 96% of UVB is filtered’

I have enjoyed using all of these SPF’s. The Institut Esthederm feels slightly thicker than the Alpha H but blends in easily and it smells absolutely delicious. It smells of foreign holidays and beach days, which for me makes it a total pleasure to apply .I don’t think I’ll be visiting either this year !

I decide which one to use depending on how my skin feels on any given day, the weather and where I am going.

I have found myself reaching for  the tinted versions when I have felt I needed a little colour and coverage [along with my protection]. My lack of sleep due to my peri-menopause symptoms and my recently diagnosed low iron can make me look like I’ve been dug up on some mornings . Tinted versions definately help and give my face some life.

They all do an excellent job, bearing in mind what I said earlier about not sitting in direct sun, I have not burnt while using any of these. I will continue to use them as my first choice face protection daily.

What is your first favourite SPF , I would love to know in the comments below.

Until next time,

Tracey x