By Yemisi Suleiman 

Sun protection has moved far beyond the traditional bottle of sunscreen tucked away in the bathroom cabinet. Today, SPF has become part of the beauty routine, appearing in moisturisers, foundations, lip balms, primers and even setting sprays.

And while the beauty industry continues to make sun protection more convenient and appealing, the golden rule remains simple: SPF should be a daily essential, not just something reserved for sunny days.
Here are the latest ways to incorporate sun protection into your daily beauty routine.

Start with your skincare
The easiest way to make SPF part of your routine is to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen as the final step of your morning skincare.

 Look for formulas that protect against both UVA and UVB rays, with SPF 30 or higher.
For hot, humid weather, lightweight gel, fluid and water-resistant formulas can feel more comfortable than heavy creams. Those with oily or combination skin can opt for non-comedogenic, oil-free formulas, while dry skin may benefit from moisturising sunscreens.

Make your makeup work harder
SPF-infused makeup is a convenient bonus. Tinted moisturisers, foundations, concealers and primers with SPF can provide additional protection while evening out the complexion.
However, don’t rely on makeup alone. The amount of foundation or powder normally applied is unlikely to provide the level of SPF protection stated on the packaging. Think of SPF makeup as an extra layer of protection, rather than a replacement for sunscreen.

Don’t forget your lips
Your lips need sun protection too. A lip balm with SPF can help protect the delicate skin from UV exposure while keeping lips moisturised. Make it a handbag essential and reapply throughout the day, particularly when spending time outdoors.

Give your hands some attention
Hands are often overlooked, despite being exposed to the sun every day. Apply sunscreen to the backs of your hands after your morning skincare routine and remember to reapply when you’re outdoors for extended periods.

SPF and body care
Your face is not the only area that needs protection. Neck, chest, shoulders, arms and legs can all be exposed to UV rays, particularly when wearing sleeveless tops, dresses or shorts.
A broad-spectrum body sunscreen makes it easier to protect larger areas without feeling like you are applying a heavy facial product everywhere.

Reapplication is the real beauty trick
Applying SPF once in the morning is not necessarily enough, especially if you are swimming, sweating or spending several hours outdoors. Sunscreen generally needs to be reapplied about every two hours when you are outdoors, and more frequently after swimming or heavy sweating.

For makeup wearers, SPF sticks, cushions and lightweight sunscreen mists can make reapplication more convenient. Just remember that convenience should not come at the expense of applying enough product.

Think beyond the sunscreen bottle
A beauty-conscious approach to sun protection also includes physical barriers. Scarves, hats, sunglasses, lightweight long-sleeved clothing and seeking shade during the strongest sunlight can all help reduce UV exposure.