It’s actually skincare in disguise. Oh, I’ve seen endless sun protection products which seem to have plenty of built-in bonuses, but never ones which actually deliver – this time I ditched some of my normal daily products as my skin was so happy with the moisturising and protecting ingredients. The sun emits two types of ultraviolet radiation. UVA affects the skin’s elastin, leading to wrinkles and premature ageing (although it’s also linked to developing skin cancers). UVB is responsible for sunburn and can increase the risk of skin cancers, too. Certain sunscreens carry a UVA star rating from zero to five, which indicates how much UVA radiation they absorb, relative to UVB radiation. Don’t be alarmed if there isn’t a number on the bottle, though: the rating system was devised and is owned by Boots, so not all brands carry it.

If you don’t know your SPFs from your UVAs and UVBs, read on as we shed some light on what to look out for with our handy buying guide below – before listing our favourite sunscreens on the market right now. I did get a bit of a glow after sunbathing but was quite happy with that result (I know, I know, it’s still sun damage but we’re not talking leather handbag here and it makes me look a bit more alive in midwinter). Find out what you need to know about 'once a day' sun creams, water-resistant sun creams, sensitive sun screen and the best kids' sun cream too. SPF is one of the best anti-ageing steps you can take, and it’s more effective the earlier you start as the majority of premature skin ageing comes from damaging UV rays. This is why I always start my day off with a hard-working sunscreen that I can wear under my makeup and provide all-day protection. Why I love it: This vegan aftersun is a cooling antidote to sun-drenched skin in need of a bit of nourishment. After a day in the sun, skin can feel hot, tight and uncomfortable (especially if you haven’t been wearing sunscreen!)

Stay safe from harmful rays with our pick of the best long-lasting, water-resistant and non-comedogenic sunscreens for kids and adults

The Face 30SPF Tinted is sheer genius: dark enough to make even my very pale (and presumably extremely interesting) skin look tanned but not grubby on day one. I’m not someone who wears foundation every day anyway, so I love the light unifying sheen that this sunscreen provides. It gives an effortlessly flawless “no makeup” look while concealing any imperfections. Who doesn’t want to look naturally airbrushed?

Who this would be perfect for: Anyone looking for a daily SPF and is concerned about the signs of ageing. Ultrasun is a Swiss suncare brand renowned for their leading suncare research and development. The collection has been sold in the UK since 1992 and they are the number 1 premium suncare brand in the UK. Plus, the SPF spray can even be used upside down (trust me, I tried) so you can ensure all those difficult to reach places are always covered. Why I love it: The Ultrasun Sports sun gel is a weightless fluid that instantly disappears into the skin, and is a popular choice for outdoor, sporty people. Cover up – wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and grab a hat if you need to keep your face out of the sun. You might also want to wear a T-shirt, which can help to cover up typically over-exposed areas such as shoulders.However, there's no agreed definition of 'reef-safe', research is still ongoing as to the impact of these chemicals, and our tests found many mineral suncreams failed to protect as claimed – so take any claims with a pinch of salt. Kids' sun cream Myth Debunked: Yes, you can still get a tan while wearing Ultrasun sunscreen! Not only can you achieve a tan, but the Tan Activator Body will actually improve, prolong and intensify your natural tan. tizzi Lovely feel on a dry day Lovely soaks in great to carry on bag on a hot day a small Matt primer wd be good to take off the shine of skin in