Want to get your hands on the most effective and highly accessible anti-aging tool around? All you need to do is add SPF to your daily skincare routine. Really, it’s that simple! Ok, full disclosure: it shouldn’t be any basic SPF. It’s important to find the SPF of your dreams because you’re going to be spending a lot of time together.
Sunny Daze
First, let’s illuminate why SPF is crucial to youthful, healthy skin. Among the many factors that can impact how skin ages, such as genetics, air pollution, stress and nutrition, UV exposure to the sun reigns supreme as the most detrimental to the epidermis. As recommended by the Canadian Dermatology Association, using a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher everyday defends against UVA and UVB rays which can damage skin in different ways. The former (aka aging rays) can penetrate windows and clouds, and contribute to premature fine lines, wrinkles and sagging, while the latter are responsible for burning skin, as well as dark spots and skin cancer.
Every skin type and tone should use sunscreen daily to maintain skin health. If treatments and active ingredients – we’re talking peels, lasers, retinol or Vitamin C – are already a key part of your routine then a sun protectant is mandatory. Shielding skin 24/7 from UV damage allows everything else you’re doing or using to work at its optimum level. Without it those efforts can be undone, so think of SPF as the ultimate reinforcement for your beauty investments.
Just Your Type
Now that you know why it’s so important to have daily sun protection in your life, let’s help you find your dream SPF. This is the one that meets all your needs and goes the extra mile, because finding a formula you truly love is the secret to creating a consistent sun protection habit, and good habits lead to gorgeous results! Beyond knowing your preference for a cream or lotion, it’s important to know there are two types of sunscreens to consider: mineral and chemical. The names refer to how the active ingredients work to protect the skin. Mineral formulas, also called physical sunscreen, are highly recommended for sensitive skin and use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that create a barrier on the skin that reflects and scatters UV rays. Chemical sunscreens use a range of ingredients that are designed to absorb UV rays and convert them into harmless heat in the body.
In the past, chemical sunscreens have been more accessible for all skin tones to use because they minimized or eliminated a telltale ghostly residue, but innovation in mineral formulations has come a long way. Today, you’ll find lightweight, blendable options that won’t leave a white cast available in both categories. Plus, in the Vivier collection, the best SPFs offer sun protection with other skin-friendly benefits, like a matte finish or subtle glow. Ok, let’s find your match!
If your dream SPF effortlessly melts into skin…
You’ll love: Vivier Sheer Broad Spectrum SPF 45 Lotion
A unique mix of both chemical and mineral UV filters creates a silky formula that spreads evenly and disappears into skin without a trace. The perfect everyday SPF for normal to dry skin, this lotion offers a matte finish with enhanced UV protection and is also ideal for post-procedure use, such as following a peel or non-ablative laser treatment.
If your dream SPF is also instantly brightening…
You’ll love: Vivier Sheer SPF 30 Mineral Tinted
Suitable for all skin types, this lightweight fluid offers UV protection and subtle illumination in one easy step thanks to ChromaTint technology that adapts and blends into your skin tone for a unified complexion. You’ll notice instant radiance, but it’s also packed with antioxidants to help achieve the long-term goal of healthy, hydrated and glowing skin.
If your dream SPF prioritizes soothing…
You’ll love: Vivier Triple Protection Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Starting with a base of powerful mineral UV filters, a blend of antioxidants, such as green tea and apple fruit extracts, makes this protective formula even more potent. The non-greasy lotion tackles free radical damage daily to reduce inflammation and irritation, making it the best SPF for sensitive skin, dry skin or any compromised complexion.
Save the Best for Last
Once you’ve found the sunscreen of your dreams, you’ll want to apply the proper amount for adequate protection as the final step in your skincare routine every day. Using 1/3 to ½ a teaspoon for the face and neck is the general guideline. Or try an easy hack called the 2-finger rule: dispense a line of SPF along your index and middle finger before blending onto face, ears and neck.
