International makeup artist Leticia Bishop shares her picks for the very best sunscreen for travel
We are getting so hot we want to take our clothes off (responsibly).
Whether you’re heading to Thailand for a beach vacay or hitting the slopes in Japan, you need to take care of your skin. Hailing from Australia and currently based in Hong Kong, international makeup artist Leticia Bishop is a huge advocate for skin protection. Here, she shares the best sunscreen for travel, each of which she’s personally tried and tested.
Discover the best sunscreen for travel
1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Eco-conscious Sun Cream Moisturising Milk SPF30
Why you’ll love it: Body protection that feels like a moisturiser
When it comes to body protection, La Roche-Posay has done an incredible job of combining high-end design with sustainability. Not only does the streamlined lid reduce plastic usage by an impressive 75%, but it also feels like a luxurious moisturiser that you’ll actually want to use all over your limbs.
The large tube means it’ll last through your holiday, giving you the best of both worlds – luxe quality hydration and eco-friendliness. La Roche-Posay has truly set the bar high for body protection with this one.
Learn more about La Roche-Posay Anthelios Eco-conscious Sun Cream Moisturising Milk SPF 30
2. Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50
Why you’ll love it: The perfect handbag top up
Phone, wallet, room key, sunscreen?
No matter where you go during the course of your day, don’t forget to take this amazing little stick with you. With its fuss-free, glides-over makeup formula, you can rest assured that your skin will be left with a healthy glow – and not a sticky mess.
Not only is the formula completely clear, it’s also incredibly hydrating, meaning you can look forward to smooth and soft skin every time you apply it. So, no matter where in the world you’re headed, don’t forget to grab this little stick – you won’t regret it!
Find out more about Supergoop Glow Stick SPF 50
3. Kose Suncut UV Perfect Gel Super Water Proof SPF 50+ PA++++
Why you’ll love it: A strong hard worker
Everyone has great things to say about this product. It’s designed to stay on through all kinds of situations, including sweat, water, oil, and rubbing. The texture is a light, cool-feeling gel that rubs in completely clear and leaves a light tack that helps keep makeup on longer without drying out the skin.
It’s not only a great sunscreen, especially for water time, but you can feel a sense of security due to its long-standing reputation as a reliable brand from Japan. It’s also one the whole family can enjoy. Even my significant other loves it and has repurchased it numerous times.
Discover more about Kose Suncut UV Perfect Gel Super Water Proof SPF 50+ PA++++
4. Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50+
Why you’ll love it: A luxury drop of roses with glow
Looking for a more luxurious experience with your daily sun protection? Ultra Violette, an Australian brand now widely available, offers a unique solution. This sunscreen comes in a glass bottle, with a stunning milky serum texture that smells like fresh roses. When applied, it glides onto the skin like a dream with no pilling making it great for under makeup.
Don’t worry, it’s not just aesthetically pleasing, it’s also SPF 50+, with UVA and UVB protection.
Learn more about Ultra Violette Queen Screen SPF 50
5. Biore UV Athlizm Skin Protect Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
Why you’ll love it: The velvet finish
Biore UV Athlizm Skin Protect Essence is a reliable option for sticky summer months when creating a glowing is not the issue. Its velvety finish helps makeup stay on longer and is an ideal travel sunscreen. The airy gel texture blends in clear, dries down quickly, and stays in place. Plus, its water-resistant formula is perfect for sports, beach days, or hot places.
Almost all sunscreens have some likeable ingredients for the skin but it’s worth mentioning this has Hyaluronic Acid, Royal Jelly extract, and Butylene Glycol which are all moisturising ingredients. Another great aspect of this product is the generous size of 70g, compared to most that are around 50g.
Learn more about Biore UV Athlizm Skin Protect Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
6. Nivea Sun Protect & Moisture SPF 50+
Why you’ll love it: For the nostalgic scent
Scent has an incredibly powerful connection to the brain’s memory, which is why Nivea sunscreens hold a special place in my heart. Whenever I apply this, I’m immediately taken back to moments of slathering it on while in my bikini before heading to the beach. After a few hours of swimming, reapplying the sunscreen to my sandy, sweaty skin has become a core memory, especially with this particular product.
Not only is this body SPF ultra-moisturising and leaves an effortless, subtle shine, but it can also be used on the face in a pinch. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the scent will linger for quite a while, so if you’re looking for something with a more subtle smell, this may not be the product for you.
If you’re a fan of Nivea Sun, you’ll be pleased to know they have a fragrance with this scent. I haven’t gotten my hands on it yet, but it’s likely easier to find in Europe.
Learn more about Nivea Sun Protect & Moisture SPF 50+
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