Summer may be our favourite season, but sun-care is a constant priority, with Ireland experiencing one of the highest rates of skin cancer in Europe. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland with 13,000 cases diagnosed annually and 9 out of 10 cases caused by UV rays from the sun or sunbeds. When choosing sun protection, always select a product with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. Ideally, it should be a minimum of SPF 30 for adults and SPF 50 for children. Apply 20 minutes before you go outside, make sure you apply generously and pay particular attention to sensitive areas such as the nose, shoulders, backs of the legs, arms and neck. If you are swimming, playing sport or working physically, you should also use a water-resistant formula. For those who prioritise their skincare regimes, be aware that a daily application of facial sunscreen is the single most effective step you can take to prevent skin ageing. There is little point in using expensive serums and moisturisers if you don’t protect your skin with a dedicated sunscreen for your face every day. SHOP NOW For those who want to shield their faces but want to avoid sticky shine, we recommend Clarins Dry Touch Sun Care Face Cream SPF30, which provides antioxidant, high-protection skincare for all weather conditions and is suitable for all skin types, even the most sensitive. It protects from damage caused by the sun and free radicals while its smooth, melting texture hydrates and dries to a dry-to-the-touch matte finish. SHOP NOW If you prefer a mineral facial sunscreen, then Clarins Mineral Sun Care Face Fluid SPF30 is a travel-size, antioxidant, high-protection sun care liquid for areas that are sensitive or highly exposed to the sun. Its smooth, melting texture protects the skin from damage caused by the sun and free radicals, and it dries to a velvety soft finish. SHOP NOW If you like luxury skincare with excellent science to back it up, then Decléor Aroma Sun Expert Body Lotion SPF30 provides high protection against harmful UVA/UVB rays whilst fighting signs of ageing. The smooth light and non-oily texture quickly absorbs into the skin, provides instant hydration and has a DNA Protection Complex to preserve your skin’s integrity. Gorgeous and effective. SHOP NOW For sports players, gardeners or those who work outdoors, Lancaster Sun Sport Roll-on Sun Fluid SPF 30 is a convenient sunscreen that allows you to do all three safely. Formulated with Lancaster’s full light technology, this water and sweat resistant roll-on sun fluid is fortified with a tan activator complex, protecting your skin from harmful effects of the sun while encouraging a radiant, golden glow. Perfect for face and body. SHOP NOW Children’s skin is considerably more sun-sensitive to UV than adults, so keeping them safe is absolutely essential. Sometimes getting the sunscreen on is a hassle, so a light and pleasant formula can help. Garnier Ambre Solaire Kids Sensitive Advanced Very High Protection Lotion SPF 50+ is a very high protection hypoallergenic lotion that protects against UVA/UVB rays and is water-resistant. Suitable for all skin types, including sensitive, fair and sun intolerant skin, this product does not contain fragrance or colourants. SHOP NOW After they have been undercover with masks for so long, don’t forget that your lips can also be sun sensitive and need protection. Blistex Sun Care Ultra Lip Balm SPF 50+ is a high protection lip balm stick infused with vitamin C, E, and antioxidants to keep lips hydrated, plump and protected. SHOP NOW For convenient sun care for staycations and days away, the Nivea Sun Protection Sun, Sea and Me 7 piece set has everything to protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun and to give soothing TLC after sun exposure. The set includes a Sun Protect & Moisture Lotion SPF30, Caring Lip Balm SPF30, Powerfruit Body Wash, After Sun Lotion, Daily Essentials 3 in 1 Refreshing Cleansing Wipes and a beach ball and beach bag. SHOP NOW Finally, if, despite your best intentions, you do get a sunburn, apply Clarins After Sun SOS Sunburn Soother Mask to soothe, hydrate and cool your skin afterwards. This “icy effect” cream-gel mask comforts the skin, instantly relieving red sunburnt complexions and minimises any burning with sunflower extract. It moisturises intensely for 48 hours with organic aloe vera extract while also nourishing the skin with shea oil and soothing that uncomfortable burning sunburn sensation. Enjoy the sun, and please stay safe.