We’re shining a ray of light on the best kept beauty secret this season -- SPF.
Now while it’s no secret that the sun’s UV rays can cause some serious damage -- for instance, UVA rays age the skin penetrating deep into the thickest layer, the dermis, as UVB rays burn the surface layers causing dryness, acne, wrinkles, and dark spots -- we really need to talk about preventing the damage.
Cosmetics from foundations to lip colors infused with sun protection factor (the ability to deflect and filter UV rays) ingredients really could make all difference.
So if you're ready to revamp your summer beauty regimen, we've got 10 products with benefits that'll last well past Labor Day.

Your Base:
You’ve got to start somewhere and honestly, the best place to start is with Lancaster. With a focus on DNA protection and rejuvenation, their light-weight, SPF products have been shown to reduce signs of premature skin aging, such as wrinkles and dark spots.
Skin Therapy Day Shield UV-Pollution
SPF level: 30
You want to be sure you have a base that will allow your skin to breathe, which is why this daily-use cream is perfect. Simply apply a thin layer to your face and neck before applying foundation and/or powder. Its invisible touch texture allows makeup to fall in place evenly for a radiant complexion. UV filters and antioxidants protect the skin from sun exposure and everyday pollution.
Sun Age Control Eyes & Lips Anti-Wrinkle
SPF level: 30
Specifically formulated for the eye area, lip contour and other sensitive, delicate, often overlooked zones; this protective cream is ideal for high sun intensities, like say a day at the beach. Apply generously before makeup application and sun exposure. Keep in mind, lower amounts will reduce level of protection significantly, but with the right eyeshadow and lipstick you’ll be good.
Sun Age Control Extra Fluid Anti-Dark Spots
SPF level: 50
Dark spots, Schmark spots. Not so quick, the effects of the sun can catch up to you sooner than you think. So you’ll want reinforced protection and natural repair support for your skin. This innovative lightweight fluid for face, neck, and hands, vanishes into skin for invisible protection with no stickiness. Just make sure you shake well and apply a thin layer before applying your make up. UVA/UVB filters will get to work while specialized melanin regulator technology prevents the development of dark spots.
Sun Age Control Anti-Wrinkle Radiant Tan Optimal Hydration
SPF level: 30
When summer draws to an end the last thing you want hanging around, aside from the humidity, are fine lines. By applying a thin layer of this anti-wrinkle cream before applying your makeup, you’ll be more than one step ahead. Not only does the cream offer reinforced sun protection with its unique blend of photostable UVA/UVB filters and an exclusive antioxidant complex that neutralizes up to 95 of age-inducing free radicals, but it also keeps skin supple and smooth thanks to adaptive moisture technology, which helps prevent dehydration and maintain moisture levels.
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Foundations and Powders:
Laura Mercier Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer
SPF level: 20
If you’re into the ‘no-makeup’ look, but still want a soft hint of color, well, there’s always Laura Mercier’s Oil-Free Tinted Moisturizer. It seriously is the perfect blend of skincare and makeup, hydrating the skin and softening fine lines with a sheer hint of color for a healthy, dewy glow while providing ideal protection from the sun’s harmful, damaging rays. Suitable for all skin types; especially acne prone, sensitive, or oily.
Clinique Even Better Foundation
SPF level: 15
Now if you’re into full coverage, then you’ll want to check out Clinique’s oil-free Even Better Foundation infused with SPF 15 and known to even skin tone. Dermatologists developed the foundation with a medium range SPF to helps protect against future darkening, while relying on moisturizing vitamins and minerals suitable for dry combination and combination oily skin types.
Clinique Derma White Bright-C Powder
SPF level:29
All some of us need is just a dab of powder and we’re good to go, which is where Clinique’s Derma White Bright-C Powder comes in. So foolproof -- with its light-weight, long-wear formula -- you’ll totally forget it’s packing an SPF of 29 and loaded with antioxidants!
Guerlain Parure Compact Powder Foundation
SPF level: 20 Everyone is going to want to know where you got that glow. Trust us, they will. Guerlain’s powder foundation formula is built around ultra-fine and lightweight crystal pearls that form "bridges of light" on the skin's surface, creating a complexion that “dazzles with radiance and vitality”. Honestly though, the crystal pearls can’t take all the credit, some of that radiance is thanks to a finely infused SPF 20.
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Lip Colors:
Elizabeth Arden Eight Hour Cream Lip Protectant Stick
SPF level:15 Elizabeth Arden gets it, your summers are intense. But so is the sun, which is why this lipstick has to hold up for eight hours. Formulated with Vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects the skin from free-radical damage (hey, UV rays), your lips are left not only moisturized but popping with color.
Korres Mango Butter Lipstick
SPF level: 10 Sheer, lightweight, and packed with moisturizing benefits; Korres knows what’s up when it comes to summer beauty necessities. Mango butter -- rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and E -- is similar to shea and cocoa butters in consistency, but differs in oxidative ability, which filters and diffuses the harmful effects of UV rays.
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