Apparently today was set to be one of the busiest ever at London's airports, with not only a mass exodus of the world's athletic elite following last night's Olympics Closing Ceremony, but masses of Londoners also heading abroad for their summer hollibobs.
Whether you're jetting off to tropical climes or sunning yourself in the garden at home, don't forget your sun cream. I've selected a couple of my favourites that will undoubtedly be going with me on my forthcoming holiday to Italy.
Clarins Sun Care Cream High Protection for Sun-Sensitive Skin UVB30 (second from left, £17.50 from www.clarins.co.uk) has been specifically formulated using breakthrough research for ultra sensitive skin. If yours becomes easily irritated in the sun, this is for you. This lightweight, non-oily cream provides deep-down, reinforced sun protection. Water, sand, heat and perspiration-resistant, it also shields sun-exposed skin against the drying effects of salt water. New generation Mineral Filters give completely unbroken coverage while a clever combination of plant extracts nourish, soften and revitalise the skin. The Clarins Sun Wrinkle Control Cream For Face High Protection UVB 30 is the perfect partner for a sensitive face. It provides reinforced sun protection with photostable and heat-resistant UVB-UVA filters. Combining efficacy with the most incredible texture, it protects against dehydration as well as helping to prevent the visible signs of premature skin ageing.
For the latter stages of your holiday you might switch to a lower SPF. I love the Piz Buin Tan & Protect Tan Intensifying Sun Lotion (second from right, £16.99, available from Boots) is available in SPF 6, 15 and 30. The non greasy and non sticky formula intensely moisturises the skin, helping to prevent peeling and contributes to a longer lasting tan. It smells incredible, and is sweat and water resistant - Win Win.
Of course there's always help at hand to top up your tan without the sun. My absolute all time favourite facial tanner has to be Sisley Self Tanning Hydrating Facial Skincare. Though not exactly cheap (£78, available from John Lewis, House of Fraser & Harrods) it is worth the investment as a little goes a long way. Enriched with moisturising and anti-free radical active ingredients, a light covering produces a gorgeous healthy glow which can easily be built up to a deeper tan. I tend to use it as a moisturiser at night and by the morning I look healthy again! The combination of two self-tanning molecules with complementary benefits, DHA and Erythrulose, provides an even, lasting, natural-looking golden glow, visible just 2 hours after application. Vitamin E acetate and Alkekengi Calyx extract protect the skin from free radicals and strengthen its natural defences. Simply the best.
Love Laurel x
