Words: Josh Lee
Photography: Benjamin Swanson
Set Design: Anne-Sophie Keen
I once flat-shared with a misfit of a man who, whenever the clouds broke and the sun flashed through, would work great fistfuls of olive oil into his skin – as if he were a Ligurian baker flurrying his arms through a tray of raw focaccia dough – before sitting outside to broil in the high heat of the afternoon. The move, it was later disclosed, was to mimic what the Ancient Greeks once did – but, even that celebrated cluster of thinkers, boundary-breakers, literary wonks and pillar-constructors were naive in using this complexion-cooking method, and, inevitably, that flatmate would often take on a Hellboy-red sheen.
With this image burnt into my mind, I think it’s best to address, once again, the lobster-hued elephant in the room: sun protector – whether you’re spending the summer topping up the tan and perspiring in the balmy climes of the West Coast, or staying in the UK, where fine weather can be a semi-frequent fixture – is an all-important staple for the months ahead.
The benefits of such lotions and schmears have been long documented: on a health level, they can help shrink the risks posed by UV rays; on a cosmetic one, they’ll minimise blistered shoulders, gnarly blotches, and a leathery, awfully aged appearance, similar to that of a knock-off Louis Vuitton clutch – and, as such, they should be incorporated into your grooming routine like any pomade, serum or cream would be.
So, this season, when you finally immerse yourself in the swelter and blaze, prep with this selection of standout formulas and let the sun leave its mark on you for all the right reasons.
Chanel, UV Essentiel
Like the fashion it proffers, Chanel’s sunscreen is packaged with elegance and timelessness in mind, its tapered bottle a handsome summer staple that looks good on bathroom shelves and in beach bags. The fragrance is defined by a somewhat lovely creamy funk that somehow evokes grooming routines of the golden-age of travel, and the formula is thick with ginger extract (aimed to boost natural defences) and Tahitian gardenia extract (which strengthens the barrier).
La Roche-Posay, Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+
We’re largely drawn to this option for two reasons: its accessible price point at under £20; and the spout at the top-left corner, which not only adds a little bit of aesthetic interest, but also makes for an easy-pour experience. At SPF 50+, it offers an extremely high level of protection; it’s water-, sweat- and sand-resistant; and it’s been made with sensitive skin in mind.
Dermalogica, Powerbright Moisturizer SPF 50
Although it sometimes eschews the high design of other labels and leans more towards a functional, almost surgical look, Dermalogica is a stronghold of the grooming scene, feted for its reliable, solid products that are favoured by professionals within the skincare world. The bottle here is filled with a moisturiser that’s made in a medium weight, and, most importantly, the red and brown algae with which it’s made is intended to even out blotchy complexions. For parched-looking appearances, cross-linked hyaluronic acid strengthens the skin’s moisture barrier.
Dr. Barbara Sturm, Sun Drops SPF50
Perhaps the most feel-good blocker we’ve tried to date, these Sun Drops, by premium grooming label Dr. Barbara Sturm, presents its case with a serum-like consistency that feels featherweight on the skin and doesn’t clog up pores in the way that counterparts on the market do. Scent-wise, it’s both light yet warm, which somewhat readies the mind for good weather.
Malin+Goetz, SPF 30 Sunscreen–High Protection
A solid, sturdy option, we’d also recommend any top tanner to liberally slather a layer of Malin+Goetz’s product on to their limbs: it’s vegan-friendly; works on all skin types; and is water-resistant. We’re also backers of the pared-down packaging whose orange typography speaks of brighter days.
This feature was taken from Gentleman’s Journal’s Summer 2023 issue. Read more about it here…
Want more grooming content? These are London’s best spa treatments for a spring refresh...
Become a Gentleman’s Journal Member?
Like the Gentleman’s Journal? Why not join the Clubhouse, a special kind of private club where members receive offers and experiences from hand-picked, premium brands. You will also receive invites to exclusive events, the quarterly print magazine delivered directly to your door and your own membership card.
