Sun Protection

Sun protection for Irish skin, which burns faster than most people expect, even on cloudy days. La Roche-Posay Anthelios, Avène, Eucerin, Elave and Calypso for face, body and children, from daily SPF 30 moisturisers to SPF 50+ for holidays.

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How to choose sun cream that you will actually wear

The two numbers that matter

SPF measures protection against UVB, the rays that burn. The UVA circle logo or "broad spectrum" means it also blocks UVA, the rays that age skin and cause most pigmentation. Choose SPF 30 or higher for daily use and SPF 50+ for holidays, children, and anyone with fair skin, a history of skin cancer, or who is on medicines that increase sun sensitivity.

Face

Daily facial SPF is the one habit dermatologists agree on. For oily or spot-prone skin, a mattifying fluid such as Anthelios UVMune 400 Oil Control or Eucerin Oil Control Dry Touch. For dry or sensitive skin, Anthelios Hydrating Cream or Avène Mineral Fluid, which uses only mineral filters. Tinted versions from Avène and La Roche-Posay double as light coverage and hide the white cast.

Body

Sprays and mists are quick for large areas but easy to under-apply; aim for a full shot-glass of product for an adult body and rub it in. Calypso is a well-priced Irish brand for family holidays. Avène and La Roche-Posay lotions suit sensitive or eczema-prone skin.

Children

Under six months, keep babies in the shade and covered; from six months use a mineral or kids' SPF 50+. Anthelios Dermo-Pediatrics and Avène Kids are tested on children's skin and fragrance-free. Childs Farm and Garnier Kids Sensitive are good value for the beach bag.

How much, how often

Apply 15 to 30 minutes before going out, and reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating, whatever the bottle claims. Most people use half the amount they need, which halves the SPF.

After sun

Cool shower, a fragrance-free after-sun or plain moisturiser, plenty of water. Blistering, fever or a burn covering a large area needs medical advice.

Pharmacist tip: sun cream expires. Check the open-jar symbol on the back (12M means twelve months after opening) and bin last year's bottle if it has been in a hot car.

Common questions about sun protection

Do I need sun cream in Ireland?

Yes. UV levels in Ireland are high enough to burn from April to September, and cloud does not block UVA. Daily SPF 30 on the face year-round and SPF 30 to 50 on exposed skin when the UV index is 3 or above is the standard advice.

What is the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?

Mineral (zinc oxide, titanium dioxide) sits on the skin and reflects UV; it suits very sensitive, eczema-prone and baby skin but can leave a white cast. Chemical filters absorb UV and feel lighter. Both work when applied properly. Avu00e8ne Mineral Fluid is our most popular mineral option.

Which SPF is best under make-up?

A lightweight fluid that dries matte, such as Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid or Eucerin Oil Control. Let it set for a minute before foundation. Tinted SPF can replace foundation entirely on lighter days.

Can I use adult sun cream on my child?

From six months, yes, as long as it is SPF 50 and fragrance-free. Kids' versions are formulated to sting less in the eyes and are tested on children's skin, which is why we recommend them for under-fives.

Written and reviewed by the pharmacist team at Laois Pharmacy, Portlaoise. General information only, not a substitute for advice about your own health. Ask us in store or on WhatsApp.