25 Under-$20 Things From Target To Brag About
A jar of E.l.f. Holy Hydration! face cream with SPF 30 broad-spectrum sunscreen and hyaluronic acid because reviewers say they would recommend this more than expensive, fancy-pants moisturizers. Being hydrated as heck and saving some money? Literally, name a more iconic duo.
Note: Based on the AAD Guidelines all sunscreens should have an SPF of at least 30 and protect against UVA and UVB rays.Promising review: "I recently purchased this out of curiosity after reading several reviews as I'm still trying to find my perfect fit moisturizer for my skincare routine. I love this one for daytime use! The texture is so creamy it glides on easily, and my skin feels soft and moisturized for most of the day. It has a light fragrance, but I find it very pleasant and doesn't irritate my senses or skin. I also love that this has SPF in it. I have used many different high-dollar brand-name moisturizers, and I would absolutely repurchase and recommend this one above them all at this point." — veitah1Price: $13
A pair of over-ear wired headphones that I personally cannot believe are this affordable because their psychedelic swirl design makes them look like you bought them at one of those expensive home goods stores where, like, a pen costs $15.
Promising review: "My kids love them! They work great compared to more expensive ones that don't last long! I've used them as well when my earbuds are dead." —JenPrice: $12.74 (originally $14.99)
A minimalist belt bag for folks looking for a chic way to cart around their phone, wallet, and lip balm. If you carry a traditional bag that seems to accumulate junk until it feels so heavy, you're worried your shoulder will get pulled out of its socket (~guilty~); this is a good way to strip down to basics — and give your poor shoulder a break.
Promising reviews: 'This bag is very cute and holds so much! Definitely a good quality and easy to clean. Highly recommend for any age.' —L"The tan color looks sophisticated without being expensive. Another great product by Target!" —CPrice: $10 (available in six colors)
A dry-erase calendar that is going to make you wonder how you lived without it. Its thin gold frame makes it look like part of your gallery wall, and it's magnetized, so you can attach important invitations and receipts — or just photos of extremely cute dogs to keep your energy up throughout your workday.
Promising review: "This is a nicely sized dry-erase board to write in my family's monthly schedule. Helps keep us organized at a glance; we use a different color for each person. I enjoy using it!" —JennyNHPrice: $12.99
An adorable solar-powered LED outdoor light because warm weather is finally upon us — grabbing a few of these to light up the night will help you maximize your outdoor time. Plus, they can also charge via USB, just in case you get a run of cloudy days.
Promising review: "I kinda bought this impulsively, not because I needed it but because I just LOVED how it looked. It has a charger you can use by plugging into the wall and a solar panel on top. There are two settings—on/off and on-when-dark-detected/off. The button is a touch button; nothing actually presses down. While it's very lightweight and probably all plastic inside, the outer layer is metal. It gives off an impressive amount of light for something so small and battery-powered! It comes in many great colors, but I decided on the green. It's really beautiful!" —BreannadPrice: $10.50 (originally $15.99; available in six colors)
A Kristen Ess deep conditioning hair treatment for folks struggling with dry or damaged hair who would like a salon-level deep conditioning treatment, but here's the twist! — I would like it to not cost one bazillion dollars. Reviewers say this masque is salon-grade, and a whole jar costs about the same as one fancy salad.
Promising reviews: 'Works really well! I've only ever bought salon grade - and this is right up there! Left my hair super soft and shiny. Smells really good, too! Has lasted me a long time.' —Carlee"I really love this hair mask! I use it once per week after shampooing, and it leaves my hair so soft and smooth like I just left the salon! The smell is so nice too. Not too strong, which I love." —Dear Katy Price: $17.99
A Dash mini waffle maker, because waiting for an hour for brunch in a super-crowded restaurant, where someone will inevitably end up putting their elbow in your latte? Why live that life when you could still be in your jammies, whipping up delicious mini waffles cooked to your exact specifications?
Promising review: "I cannot say enough good things about this little waffle maker. It may be small, but it's mighty. It doesn't take up much room, is easy to store/clean, and makes fresh waffles for my family on busy mornings super fast. I just keep some waffle batter in my fridge throughout the week and use a few servings each morning. I never thought I would get as much use out of this as I do." —TeddyOatsPrice: $9.99 (available in two colors)
A pack of Pixi + Hello Kitty sheet masks that aren't just printed with adorable images of your fave cartoon kitty — they're soaked with vitamins A and C, and reviewers say they make their skin feel plump and ultra-hydrated.
Promising reviews: "Hands down, the best sheet mask I've ever tried! Leaves skin plump, hydrated, and glassy. I put mine in the fridge to chill before I applied and it just added to the overall rejuvenating effect. Go buy it!!" —Anonymous"I bought these just because they were Hello Kitty… ended up making my skin so soft and glowy for 24 hours. Evens helped the look of acne scarring." —kaitlynn jPrice: $10 for a pack of three
A can organizer, because you are playing a dangerous game when you just stack your La Croix and Olipops all willy-nilly in your fridge. This organizer works for mini and full-size cans and takes up less room than the big cardboard crate that they came in.
Promising review: "Great organization item! Sturdy. Holds up to three rows of cans. Regular size and mini cans both work." —BrittncourtPrice: $14
A mini enameled cast-iron Dutch oven for anyone who's heard a ton about Dutch ovens but isn't sure they're ready to commit to one. This mini version can help you give them a test run — and it's great for making dips, desserts, and small baked goods.
Promising review: "I made s'mores dip in this mini Dutch oven, and it came out great. Surprisingly, it was easy to clean, keeping my s'mores dip warm after taking it out of the oven. I wish there were more colors." —RaveenPrice: $14.99+ (available in three sizes)
A three-piece tropical print gardening set, because who says doing household chores can't be an incredibly glam experience? Prune those petunias in style, my friend.
Kit includes a spade, cultivator, and bypass pruner.Price: $17.50 (originally $25)
A Physicians Formula face palette that's packed with bronzers, highlighters, blush, and powder, so you can create new looks whenever your thrifty little heart desires.
Promising review: 'Yes, yes, yes!!! Absolutely love, love, love! This palette! I bought it, and it's AMAZING! It smells so good, too! The highlight and bronzer are perfect shades! I love everything about this palette so much! It does last long and for the price! It's a steal! The price of what it is should be higher, in my opinion! This palette is absolutely incredible!' —Mascara + AllergiesPrice: $19.59
An ultra-slim two-slice toaster because have you ever noticed that your toaster is weirdly enormous? Why does it need so much hardware to toast two lil' slices of bread? This narrow model will take up way less cash and counter space (but will toast your bagels just as thoroughly).
Promising review: "I first loved the minimalistic design and its lightweight. I love the tray for cleaning bread crumbs. Functional buttons are easy to understand and the toaster does a perfect job." —PlacematPrice: $19.99 (available in four colors)
A vintage-inspired trinket tray that looks like it came from a pricey homewares store — your friends will not believe it cost less than $5 and came from Target. Hey, I can't believe it, and I'm the one writing this article!
Promising review: "This trinket dish has quickly become one of my favorite decorative pieces. The design is both charming and elegant, featuring intricate patterns that add a touch of sophistication to any space. It's the perfect size for holding small items like rings, earrings, and other jewelry, keeping them organized and easily accessible. What I love most about this trinket dish is how it combines practicality with aesthetic appeal." —Monica77Price: $4.99
A vacuum wine preserver, because there are few kitchen tragedies on par with pouring a nice glass of wine, only to find that it has turned...skunky. Oxygen is the thing that turns wine from "full-bodied, with notes of caramel" to "YIKES." This handy tool pumps oxygen out of your bottle, and the stoppers seal it, helping your wine stay delicious for longer.
Promising review: 'Wonderful wine pump! Works beautifully. Where have you been all my life? Highly recommend it. Worth it. Just a few dollars more than an ordinary wine pump.' —Mickey Price: $18.99
A three-pack of '80s-style striped crew socks for anyone who's looking to work a few vintage vibes into their summer looks. These will look extremely cute pulled all the way up and paired with short-shorts and Converse.
Promising review: "I think these socks are great. I don't like thick socks, so they are perfect for me. They run a little big in the foot for me, but not at all a deal breaker for what ends up being less than $3 per pair. They also stay up nicely." —MplsMamaPrice: $8 (available in two color sets and fits women's shoe sizes 4–10)
A jar of Aquaphor healing ointment you can use for everything from fading scars to soothing diaper rashes, treating chapped lips to "slugging" your skin to lock in your serums at night. It's kind of like a Swiss Army knife, but for your skin, so it always pays to have some on hand.
Promising review: "Aquaphor is great for dry skin during the fall and winter. A little goes a long way. It's not like lotion; it's more concentrated and does a better job than just lotion." —LuluPrice: $5.49+ (available in two sizes)
A Bentgo two-tier snack cup that isn't just for kids — this is perfect for bringing two equally delicious (but totally incompatible) snacks to work. Pretzels and apple slices? Hummus and blueberries? Don't fear — the cup's two airtight compartments are totally separate, so there's no leakage (or spilled pretzel dust).
Price: $19.99 (available in five colors)
A 2-quart Crock-Pot, because it's time you let someone else cook you dinner...and yes, that someone is this lovely appliance. You can fill it up with ingredients before you leave the house and come home to a magically cooked stew, chili, pot roast, or butter chicken...it's great that some of your kitchen appliances are finally pulling their own weight over here, in.
Promising review: "Perfect size. I take this to Bunco potlucks often and it holds just the right amount of food and it's easy to travel because it's not massive. I love this thing." —CCPrice: $17.99 (originally $19.99)
A hydrating facial cleanser that wasn't just developed with dermatologists — many (including mine!) recommend it over the extremely expensive stuff you'd buy at a beauty store. And if you opt for this big ol' 16-ounce bottle, it will help you clean off impurities without stripping away your skin's natural moisture for a long, loooong time.
Promising review: "I have tried every face wash, spot treatment, acne medication, birth control, and professional facial service under the sun, and I have had acne since I was 17. I bought this, and my skin cleared up completely in three months, so much that I was able to completely stop all other topicals and oral dermatologist medications. I use the a.m. and p.m. moisturizer, too; this was really a godsend." —Ks97Price: $6.49+ (available in four sizes)
A microgel down alternative pillow because I know what you're thinking: it only costs $15?? Is this pillow made from old socks and sawdust?? HARDLY. This medium-firm pillow is made with micro-gel, so it can hold its shape and support your head as well as some much pricier models.
Promising review: "Some of the best pillows I've owned so far. I love how the packaging has a meter on it as well. These pillows bounce back unlike any other pillow I've slept on. For $15 each, this is definitely a bargain." —oreofox22Price: $15+ (available in standard and king sizes)
A faux-leather padfolio with organizational pockets and a built-in pad for anyone who likes to take old-school notes at their job (or whose job is constantly giving you tons of papers to deal with). It's way more chic than a manila folder, and will 100% make you feel like A Grown Up Doing Very Important Business (even if you're eating Dunkaroos while you do it).
Promising review: 'Love this padfolio! Love this for meetings. The neutral color goes with everything.' —JenaPrice: $15
A fold-up camp chair, because every year, summer arrives, and you realize that you need more outdoor chairs for camping, beach trips, concerts, and having guests chill in your backyard while you serve them burgers (but they must address you as "The Barbecue Wizard" while you do it). This model is about as affordable as they come, but reviewers say it's still ultra-comfy.
Promising review: "We've bought three of these chairs now because they're the perfect size—especially for adults, including men. They're not flimsy or too small like some others we've tried. Super easy to fold up and take to our kids' sports events. Comfortable, lightweight, and reliable. A great value!" —KathyPrice: $9.99
A hanging organizer for anyone starting to feel like the only way to deal with their closet mess is to leave under cover of darkness and start a new life across state lines. With three or six shelves, this organizer has room to store extra sweaters, pants, bags, hats, and even shoes. It's time to breathe a sigh of relief...and then finally deal with whatever is going on inside your bathroom cabinet.
Promising review: "Very good quality product and size. I was afraid it would not last very long, but I have had it for several months and it's still holding up. I do fill it with a lot of things. It is heavy and still has not torn or come apart. Good product." —StrangePrice: $15+ (available in two sizes)
A three-pack of drain cleaner snakes because this isn't just cheap — removing your gross hair clogs with this for a few bucks now will save you a plumber's enormous bill later.
Promising review: "Cleared the hair clog in my pop-up shower drain immediately, without having to remove the drain cap." —SSPrice: $6.29
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Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
How much sunscreen do you actually need? Your summer SPF guide.
If summer had a signature scent, it would be sunscreen, but that doesn't necessarily mean everyone is applying it poolside, at the beach or before hopping out to pick up popsicles at the store. Here's why you should: While you're soaking up the warmer weather outside — or even just driving in your car or sitting near an office window — you're also being exposed to the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. These rays can damage the DNA in your skin cells, which can lead to skin cancer. Skin cancer has been on the rise in the U.S. for years, with 1 in 5 people developing the disease by age 70, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. The good news? There's a simple and effective way to help reduce that risk, while also protecting against premature skin aging. Yep, it's sunscreen. So which SPF level should you use? How long does sunscreen last? And does SPF-infused makeup count as sun protection? We asked dermatologists these common questions and more. Here's everything you need to know about sunscreen and how to best protect your skin this summer and beyond. The SPF, or sun protection factor, measures how well sunscreen protects against sunburn, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD). So how do the different levels of SPF measure up? According to the MD Anderson Cancer Center, an SPF 15 sunscreen blocks 93% of the sun's harmful UVB rays, and SPF 30 blocks 97%. Once you get higher than that, you're only getting a small boost in protection. For example, SPF 50 stops 98% of UVB rays, while SPF 100 blocks 99% of them. No sunscreen provides 100% protection from damaging UV rays. The AAD recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen — meaning it protects against both UVA rays (which prematurely age skin) and UVB rays (which cause sunburn) — with SPF 30 or higher. 'Above that can be helpful but the really profound cancer protection starts at SPF 30,' Dr. Daniel Butler, a dermatologist in Tucson, Ariz., tells Yahoo Life. The main differences are their ingredients and how they protect against the sun's rays. 'Chemical sunscreens,' such as avobenzone, oxybenzone and octinoxate, 'absorb UV rays, while mineral sunscreens — zinc oxide or titanium dioxide — act as a physical barrier preventing UV rays from hitting the skin,' Dr. Jason Miller, a dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in Freehold, N.J., tells Yahoo Life. 'Both offer good protection.' However, chemical sunscreens can cause allergic reactions in some people. 'There is an increased chance of irritation and stinging due to the combination of multiple ingredients in order to provide both UVA and UVB protections,' Dr. Cula Svidzinski, a cosmetic dermatologist at Sadick Dermatology in New York City, tells Yahoo Life. Mineral (also known as physical) sunscreens, on the other hand, are naturally broad spectrum, blocking both UVA and UVB rays as well as blue light, says Svidzinski. While these sunscreens can leave a white cast — the minerals themselves are white and sit on top of the skin — the formulations have come a long way. Experts say that sunscreen should be an everyday habit. 'I recommend people use sunscreen daily in the morning and then reapply if they're deliberately out in the sun,' says Butler. But it's worth noting that even on overcast days, you're still exposed to some harmful UV rays. That's why Dr. Vicky Zhen Ren, assistant professor of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine, tells Yahoo Life that sunscreen should be worn 'even on cold or cloudy days' and 'especially near reflective surfaces such as water, snow or sand.' Even if you're indoors, it's still a good idea to wear sunscreen since UV rays, specifically UVA, can penetrate windows, Dr. Marisa Garshick, a dermatologist in New York City and Englewood, N.J., tells Yahoo Life. 'It is also important to note that blue light may be emitted from computer screens and phones and can contribute to skin changes, and using sunscreen may help to protect the skin,' she says. Butler agrees, adding: 'While indoor and computer light are unlikely to cause cancerous changes, photoaging can still occur when indoors or when in front of a computer screen. Because of this, I recommend wearing sunscreen on the face if indoors or in front of a computer for extended periods of time.' 'In order to achieve the SPF on the label, you need about one shot glass of sunscreen — most people tend to use less,' says Miller. Ren adds that sunscreen should also be applied 15 minutes before going outside. And remember to slather it on commonly forgotten areas, such as the back of your ears, the back of your hands and the top of your feet, along with wearing lip balm with SPF 30 or higher. As one expert put it: 'Lip gloss that doesn't contain SPF is like applying baby oil to your lips.' In general, sunscreen lasts about two hours. If you're staying cool and dry indoors and aren't near any windows, you can stretch that to four to six hours, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. But sunscreen should be reapplied about every two hours if you're outdoors, more often if you're swimming or sweating. Water-resistant sunscreens can protect your skin, even when wet, for 40-80 minutes tops and then they need to be reapplied. (There's no such thing as waterproof or sweat-proof sunscreen so manufacturers are not allowed to make those claims, according to the Food and Drug Administration.) 'Even if you go for a high SPF sunscreen, you're not reaping the full benefits of that high SPF sunscreen unless you're thoroughly covering the sun-exposed areas and reapplying,' says Ren. Sunscreen doesn't last forever, so it's worth checking your cabinets and beach bags for expired products. FDA regulations require all nonprescription drugs, including sunscreen, to have an expiration date, though there's an exception to that rule if a manufacturer's stability testing shows the product will remain stable for at least three years. 'Many sunscreens include an expiration date,' says Svidzinski. 'If the sunscreen doesn't have an expiration date, write the date you bought it on the bottle and discard it three years later.' Not sure how old your sunscreen is? Discard it, per the FDA. Avoid leaving sunscreen in hot cars or in direct sunlight, which Garshick says can impact how effective it is. 'Leaving sunscreen in a hot car can make the preservatives break down, which can lead to colonization with bacteria or yeast,' explains Butler. You should also keep an eye out for changes in sunscreen color, smell or consistency. 'Signs that should make you throw it away is if it smells badly or if it's extra watery when it comes out,' he says. The most important factor in choosing the "right" sunscreen is selecting the recommended SPF of 30, says Svidzinski. 'After that, the 'right sunscreen' is the one that you are going to use,' she says. Butler tells his patients to try three or four different options before deciding on an everyday sunscreen that they're happy with. For those with sensitive skin, Garshick says it's best to opt for a mineral sunscreen 'as they tend to be less irritating and less likely to cause an allergic reaction.' Those with acne-prone skin 'should look for sunscreens that are non-comedogenic or oil-free to help minimize any potential for breakouts,' she says. For those with darker skin, Garshick says that chemical sunscreens may be preferred 'as they tend to absorb in easily without leaving a white cast.' However Svidzinski says that with the improved formulation of mineral sunscreens 'there are a lot more options for skin of color.' Garshick adds that tinted sunscreens are also an option to best match a specific skin tone. 'Sunscreen sprays and sticks can offer the same amount of protection as lotions if a proper amount is applied,' says Garshick. 'The issue for most sprays and sticks is people do not typically apply enough or do not apply an even coat so there are skip areas that may be at risk of burn. Sunscreen sprays are not bad for you but it is important to use them properly. Ultimately, some sunscreen is better than no sunscreen, but either way it is important to ensure enough sunscreen is applied.' However, some dermatologists recommend caution around using spray sunscreen. 'Sprays are popular due to their ease of use, however little is known about the effects of inhaling particles of sunscreen into the lungs, making it difficult to recommend their use,' Miller says. Butler adds that 'regarding spray sunscreens, if aerosolized, they may contain benzenes which, at high levels, can cause negative health impacts.' But if you're determined to use them, Svidzinski says it's 'essential to rub spray sunscreen in to ensure even coverage.' And given that there's some concern about inhalation, she recommends applying them in a well-ventilated area and avoiding spraying directly on the face. Dermatologists are mixed as to whether makeup and facial moisturizers with SPF offer enough sun protection. (Also worth noting: They only help protect your face — any other exposed skin needs sunscreen too.) 'These are great for everyday sun protection,' says Butler. 'Ideally, they would be SPF 30 or greater to ensure the cancer protection impact as well as the benefits of aging prevention.' However, Garshick says that even though a daily moisturizer or foundation with SPF may indicate that it provides sun protection, 'it is not typically considered enough because most often people do not apply a sufficient amount of moisturizer or foundation to get the amount of protection as indicated on the label.' Svidzinski agrees. 'SPF makeup is not a substitute for a stand-alone sunscreen,' she says. 'Daily moisturizer with a minimum SPF of 30 may be OK if your day consists of very little time outdoors.' But, she says, along with not putting on enough to provide full protection, you likely won't reapply SPF-infused makeup or moisturizer throughout the day. 'This is why I recommend using a dedicated physical sunscreen SPF 30 in addition to your moisturizer or makeup with SPF.' Although sunscreen typically gets the most attention, it isn't the only way to avoid harmful UV rays. There are other steps you can and should take, say experts — namely, seeking shade when the sun's rays are strongest. Typically, that's between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. 'But of course this may vary depending on your location,' says Ren, 'so more importantly, seek shade whenever your shadow is shorter than you.' Also, wear sun-protective clothing. This includes tightly woven, long-sleeved shirts and pants with Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF), wide-brimmed hats and large-framed sunglasses with UV protection, says Ren.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
The best sunscreen of 2025 – and the two to avoid
With hot weather sweeping the UK and an amber heatwave warning in place, sunscreen is something we should all be wearing on the parts of our bodies exposed to the sun. But how can you be sure your go-to bottle is doing what it promises? To help shoppers find suncreams they can trust, consumer group Which? tested a range of high street and premium options using official British and international standards. SPF (which protects against UVB rays that cause sunburn) was checked by applying sunscreen to volunteers' skin and exposing it to controlled UVB light. UVA protection (which guards against long-term skin damage and ageing) was tested in the lab by measuring how much of the sun's rays were absorbed through the cream. This year, 13 products passed with flying colours – but two missed the mark in at least one test. This supermarket-own product passed the UVA part of the testing but fell short on SPF protection. According to Which?, lab results showed an SPF of 25.7 and then 20.7 on retest – lower than the SPF30 claim and below the threshold needed to pass. The supermarket told Which? it's "looking closely at the results" and is carrying out further independent testing with its supplier. Ultrasun met the SPF requirement in testing, but failed to hit the minimum UVA protection. Which? recorded a UVA protection factor of 9.1 and 9.5 across two tests, just below the required level of 10. Ultrasun told Which? it is "fully confident in its testing protocols and that its detailed testing processes continue to not only meet, but surpass industry standards." It also said its chosen testing protocol is one of the strictest available. Tested and approved – here are the sunscreens Which? says deliver on sun protection: Boots Soltan Protect & Moisturise Lotion, £5.50 Boots Soltan Protect & Moisturise Spray, £5.50 Nivea Sun Protect & Moisture Lotion, £7.90 Lidl Cien Sun Protect Spray SPF30, £3.79 Sainsbury's Sun Protect Moisturising Lotion, £5.50 Superdrug Solait Sun Spray, £5.50 Garnier Ambre Solaire Sensitive Advanced Spray SPF50+, £11 Sainsbury's Sun Protect Moisturising Spray Lotion SPF50+, £5.75 Aldi Lacura Sensitive Sun Lotion SPF50+, £2.99 Boots Soltan Protect & Moisturise Lotion SPF50+, £5.50 Nivea Sun Protect & Moisture Spray SPF50+, £7.90 Childs Farm Fragrance-Free Sun Cream SPF50+, £12 Soltan Kids Protect & Moisturise Lotion SPF50+, £5.50 When it comes to SPF, Which? and NHS guidance suggest looking for: A minimum SPF of 30 for UVB protection A UVA protection seal (a circle with 'UVA' inside) or Boots' four- or five-star UVA rating Water resistance if you're swimming or sweating Reapplication every two hours (more if swimming or towelling off) It's worth checking the expiry date too — suncream can lose its effectiveness over time. Kids' skin is around 30% thinner than adults', which means UV rays can cause damage more quickly. Their skin also produces less melanin – the pigment that helps protect against sunburn – so they need extra protection. Look for suncream with SPF 30 or higher, ideally labelled for children or sensitive skin. Water-resistant options are a good bet too, especially if they're splashing about. Wide-brimmed hats, rash vests and UV-protective sunglasses can all help keep them covered. And if you're unsure of a brand to go for before your next top up, Which? has lots of sunscreen information on its website. Suncream helps, but it's just one part of the picture. Here's what the NHS and British Skin Foundation recommend for staying protected during exposure to the sun: Stick to the shade (11am–3pm): UV is strongest midday, so take breaks under trees, parasols or cover –just remember rays can still reflect off water or sand. Cover up well: Wear loose, tightly woven clothes, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses with a CE mark, UV‑400 or 100% UV protection. Pick sun-safe fabrics: Look for clothing labelled UPF 30+ – UPF 50+ gives the best protection. Apply early, reapply often: Use sunscreen 30 minutes before heading out, then reapply every 2 hours – or sooner if you're swimming or towelling off. Use enough: Aim for 6–8 teaspoons to cover your whole body – most of us don't use enough. Check the label: Go for SPF 30+ and either 4–5 stars or a UVA-in-a-circle symbol to ensure broad protection. Don't ditch it on cloudy days: UV still gets through clouds and bounces off sand, water and snow – protection's still essential. Read more about suncream: The 4 most important things to check on your sunscreen, according to a dermatologist (Yahoo Life UK, 5-min read) Why you need sunscreen all year round, even indoors (Yahoo Life UK, 6-min read) The 8 best sunscreens for kids and adults – and the correct SPF to use for your age (Yahoo Life UK, 7-min read)
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Yahoo
£28 family sunscreen among brands to fail safety testing, Which? finds
A £28 family sunscreen has failed an annual Which? safety test while a £2.99 supermarket alternative passed with 'flying colours', the watchdog said. Ultrasun Family SPF30, which costs £28 for 150ml and is marketed as being 'perfect for the whole family' and 'especially suitable for children and those with sensitive skin', failed to meet minimum UVA protection levels in two separate tests by Which?. Ultrasun passed the UVB SPF part of the test but failed on UVA testing, scoring 9.1 and then 9.5 in a retest. Which? required a score of 10 or more for a pass. Morrisons Moisturising Sun Spray SPF30 also failed to meet minimum SPF protection levels in two tests. The product passed UVA tests but failed the UVB/SPF tests with scores of 25.7 and then 20.7 – short of the 30 or more needed to pass. UVA and UVB rays both cause different types of damage, and not all sun creams protect against them in the same way. UVA rays penetrate the skin more deeply than UVB to cause long-term damage, including all types of skin cancer, and play a role in the ageing process, such as causing wrinkles, sun spots and leathery skin. UVB rays are mostly responsible for sunburn and skin reddening. They do not penetrate as deeply as UVA rays but they are just as damaging, and can play a large part in the development of skin cancers including melanoma. SPF stands for 'sun protection factor', and indicates the level of protection a sun cream provides against burning rays. SPFs range from 2 to 50+, with 50+ offering the most protection against UVB. Which? tested 15 popular sun creams this year, including Boots, Garnier and Nivea as well as supermarket own-brand products. Aldi's Lacura Sensitive Sun Lotion SPF50+, which costs £2.99 for 200ml, was found to protect the skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Cien Sun Spray 30 SPF High (£3.79/200ml), from fellow discounter Lidl, also passed all SPF and UVA testing, with Which? describing it as a 'solid option for affordable and reliable sun protection'. Some 11 other products, including Boots Soltan Protect & Moisturise Suncare Spray SPF30 (£5.50 for 200ml), Nivea Sun Protect & Moisture Lotion SPF30 (£7.90 for 200ml) and Sainsbury's Sun Protect Moisturising Lotion SPF30 (£5.50 for 200ml) passed SPF and UVA safety tests. Natalie Hitchins, Which? head of home products and services, said: 'It's really concerning that widely available sunscreens could be putting families at risk by failing to offer the level of sun protection claimed on the packaging. 'While shoppers should avoid buying our 'don't buys', our results prove that there's no need to splash out to keep you and your loved ones safe in the sun as we've found cheap reliable options at Aldi and Lidl.' A spokeswoman for Ultrasun said: 'Ultrasun is fully confident in our testing protocols. As an independent brand delivering very high UVB and UVA protection options for over 30 years, our detailed testing processes, independent and peer reviewed, continue to not only meet but surpass industry standards. 'Our chosen testing protocol is one of the strictest available. Further detail and clarification from Which? on their testing protocols would also be helpful, particularly on how these resulted in two different results from the same sample.' Morrisons told Which? that it was looking closely at the data and working with its supplier to carry out additional independent testing. A Morrisons spokeswoman added: 'We work closely with our supplier and conduct extensive efficacy and safety testing during product development. As such, all our sun care products are tested to the relevant industry test standards and are not approved for launch until they meet these standards. During development and production all tested variants consistently achieved an SPF of 30. 'In direct response to this report from Which? we have retested the SPF against the British and International Standard BS EN ISO 24444:2020 and can confirm the product has achieved an SPF value of 34.5 and can therefore be labelled as SPF 30.'
