Calypso Once a Day Sun Protection Lotion with SPF 30

Product Information

We tested two popular sun creams in chlorinated water (to mimic a swimming pool) and salty water (to emulate the sea). We also added another scenario using fast-moving tap water to see what effect this had. Most of the time, the products weren't as effective in our more realistic conditions as they were in tap water. You can buy sun cream in pharmacies, supermarkets and discount stores, with some of our tested options coming from Asda, Boots, Garnier, Nivea and Wilko.

It's common for sun creams to claim to be 'water resistant', but this doesn't mean that they're waterproof. It takes longer for those with darker skin that rarely burns – it can take 25-40 minutes for the darkest skin type. Even with our test subjects just sitting on a chair in a T-shirt, we saw substantial reductions in the level of sun protection, so we don't think you can rely on once-a-day sun cream to keep you protected all day. This tends to mean that two commonly used chemical UV filters linked to coral bleaching – oxybenzone and octinoxate – aren’t used. Do not exceed exposure to the sun for longer than your skin type allows, taking into account the strength of the sun.However, there's no agreed definition of 'reef-safe', research is still ongoing as to the impact of these chemicals, and our tests found many mineral suncreams failed to protect as claimed – so take any claims with a pinch of salt. Kids' sun cream We saw an average 74% decrease in SPF protection at the end of the tests. We shared our concerns with Cancer Research UK (CRUK) and the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD). Both advise against relying on any sun cream for extended periods in the sun.

If you're using sun cream at the beach, apply plenty before swimming, and again when you leave the water. Reef-safe sun creams Apply to all exposed areas especially those that are prone to sun radiation e.g. face, nose, receding hairline, shoulders and feet. Apply evenly and generously, smooth in gently. We recommend a minimum quantity of 35ml for all over body protection. Physical/mineral products reflect visible light as well as UV, which can make the formulations opaque and leave a white residue on the skin. Some formulations use nanoparticles of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide – the minerals responsible for the residue. Nanoparticles are smaller, and as they scatter visible light – rather than reflect it – the sun creams are transparent. How to use sun creamCover up – wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and grab a hat if you need to keep your face out of the sun. You might also want to wear a T-shirt, which can help to cover up typically over-exposed areas such as shoulders. Eat well, live better and stay healthy - sign up for our free monthly Food & Health newsletter for the latest insights delivered straight to your inbox Mineral sunscreens in particular often promote their environmental credentials, the most common being that they’re ‘reef-safe’ or 'ocean-friendly'. From April to September, when the UV Index is generally higher. It takes 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure each day for those with fair-to-olive skin to get enough vitamin D. Consider the time of day – If you're spending time in the sun without wearing sun cream, you should only do so before 11am or after 3pm, as the middle of the day is when you're at the greatest risk of getting burnt.

Babies less than six months old should be kept out of direct sunlight, according to the NHS, and the skin of young children should be protected from the sun when UV levels are high. For reasons of hygiene and safety, personal grooming products, cosmetics or items of intimate clothing cannot be returned. Always be aware of the strength of the sun. Never exceed sun exposure for longer than your skin allows. Remember - all skin types are different.Unwanted Food or Drink Products - Once supply conditions are broken, there are a number of factors outside of our control that can affect the quality of a product. Therefore perishable goods such as food and drink cannot be returned. Find out what you need to know about 'once a day' sun creams, water-resistant sun creams, sensitive sun screen and the best kids' sun cream too.

There’s a long list of ingredients that are used as chemical absorbers, so it’s easiest to simply look for products that are labelled ‘sensitive’ rather than search for specific ingredients. SPF make-up: does it really offer protection from the sun? Calypso Once A Day may cause staining on certain fabrics and surfaces. Always cover seats and cushions. May discolour nail products. Important: Read the instructions carefully before use. Apply to clean dry skin, preferably after a shower. Apply evenly and generously 15 minutes before exposure to the sun, which will allow the product to bind with the skin and form a protective film against UVA/UVB rays. When used correctly, one application is sufficient for all day protection.

The industry guideline for water-resistant sun creams allows the SPF of a product to drop by 50% after a total of 40 minutes in water. Water-resistance testing also takes place in what is essentially a bath – using tap water.