TEN Safe Ways to Get a Great TAN

By EVE MCGOWAN

The range of suntan lotions on the High Street can be as dazzling as the sun itself so we have selected ten bestselling brands. EVE McGOWAN asked cosmetic doctor Patrick Bowler to identify their benefits and who is best suited to which brands.

There are two types of sunscreen one that reflects the sun’s rays and another that absorbs it and causes a chemical reaction on the skin. Those with sensitive skin may decide to steer clear of the second.

While the reflective types avoid the chemical reaction, they don’t offer protection from all wavelengths of light. The best sunscreens are those that combine some chemicals with the reflectives.

Sunscreens should offer protection from both UVA rays the ones related to ageing that go deeper into the skin, producing pigment changes and deeper wrinkles, and UVB rays that hit the top part of the skin and cause burning.

Creme De La Mer, SPF 18 fluid tint, 50, 0870 034 2566

I totted up at least three chemical sunscreens in this which lock into the skin and have a potential for allergic reactions itching and redness so those with sensitive skin be careful. It has good application, which you’d expect for 50, and is the only one of the ten to provide both chemical and reflective protection.

Good for: Those who wear makeup on the beach its tint comes in three shades.

Garnier Ambre Solaire Clear Protect transparent gel, SPF 30, 14.99, 0845 399 0404

Gel is much lighter than a traditional lotion and is good for oily skin. As we get older the skin dries out a bit more so a cream base is preferable, but for teenagers and young adults with acne this is really good. There is no silvery effect from the gel. It is suitable only for the body, however. Good for: Those with oily skin.

Origins Out Smart Daily, SPF 25, 14.50, 0207 836 9603

This is my favourite. It contains the naturally reflective sunscreen titanium dioxide and plenty of antioxidants which help mop up the damage as it’s happening.

Titanium dioxide doesn’t cover all wavelengths of light, though, and can leave a slightly silvery look to the skin, although it absorbs within half an hour. One for the beach.

Good for: Sensitive skin and those who want protection without chemicals.

Estee Lauder Sun Performance, SPF 30 Sunscreen, 150ml, 18.50, 0870 034 2566

An excellent lotion with moisturiser that felt and smelt really nice. It is a chemical sunscreen with no reflectants, and contains oxybenzone which can cause allergic reaction.

Good for: Mature skin prone to age spots and dryness.

Ultrasun High Protection 20 clear sunfilter sports formula, 12.95, 01737 245 499

Another clear gel. This one’s water-resistant but still needs to be reapplied after sweating and swimming. It has chemical sunscreens so those with sensitive skins may want to be cautious. It’s easy to apply, non-greasy and you can put this one on the face.

Good for: Those prone to spots.

Asda Sun System, Medium Protection Spray SPF 8, 2.99, 0500 100 055

A chemical-based suntan lotion and very good value. This is important because the crucial thing is not to skimp on how much you use. SPF 8 is better than nothing but doesn’t give adequate protection. Most British skins would burn in less than an hour, so you’d be better applying factor 30. Good for: Families on a budget.

Tesco Sun Protection Kids’ moisturising spray lotion, SPF 40, 3.29, 0800 505 555

Don’t get a false sense of security because of the SPF 40. This is a chemical spray and contains no reflectants. The chemicals may cause mild irritation. The spray is a big positive and is easy to apply. Good for: Families with young children.

Superdrug Solait sunshine defence lotion with insect repellent, SPF 30, 7.49, 0845 671 0709

This is good value for money.

I’m not convinced the repellent is necessary and it might be an irritant combined with the other chemicals. There aren’t too many insects around when you’re on the beach unless you’re in the Tropics.

Good for: Exotic holidays.

Bliss Water Resistant The Big Screen broad-spectrum sunscreen spray for body, 18, 250ml, 0800 100 4151

Really good instructions advise to apply liberally, 20 minutes before or after swimming, after excessive sweating and every two hours. Broad spectrum means it covers UVA and UVB, and it contains oxybenzone so there is a risk of irritation.

Good for: Fashionistas who will love the funky packaging.

Riemann P20 once-a-day ten hours’ protection, from 11.95

A good chemical sunscreen with a high SPF, claimed to last ten hours. The packaging says if you swim and sweat you might need to reapply more often, but in a normal day on the beach there’s no way it would last ten hours.

Good for: A good all-rounder, but keep topping it up.

. Dr Patrick Bowler is director of Court House Clinics (0845 555 5050) and author of The Nervous Girls’ Guide To Nip And Tuck, published by Harper Thorsons at 7.99.

… and five ways tofake it

Tesco Finest Self Tan Moisturising Spray, 6, 0800 505 555.

Famous Dave’s Moisture Tan, 19.99, 01489 573 331.

Prescriptives Sunsheen Tanner, 27, 0870 034 2566.

Marks Spencer Self Tan Body Flash Mousse, 9.50, 0845 302 1234.

California Sunless Tan Sunless Tanning Kit, 19.99, 01325 360900.

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