SUMMER LOVIN’
When tasked with taking my favourite Boots products on a day out to road test them, I jumped at the chance (obviously). Was I being mindlessly loyal to old favourites or would they all hold up on a long, hot day in the city? Before heading out with friends to my local park, I picked a selection designed to offer protection – combating everything from the sun’s rays to pesky hay fever. Here’s how my choices fared. The scores out of ten show which ones went the distance.
Philip Kingsley really knows what it's doing when it comes to hair (all hail the miraculous Elasticizer), and this shampoo was recommended to me to help protect coloured hair – particularly important during the summer months.
With a trip to my local park planned, I swapped out my usual shampoo for this sulphate-free one – its anti-fade formula contains provitamin B5 so colour is meant to last 100 per cent longer. Despite the soaring temperatures, I found my hair felt impressively shiny and full of body. And sure enough, my recent balayage still looks salon-fresh.
Discover trusted protection at Boots, from allergy barriers to travel vaccinations and insect repellents. This year, summer better be ready
Sophie Goddard
PROMOTED CONTENT
Score: 8/10
A lovely formula and smell that left my hair and scalp feeling clean and protected.
Philip Kingsley Pure Colour Anti-Fade Shampoo, £25.50 (250ml)
The shampoo
Constantly checking the pollen count? Same. If sneezing, itchy eyes and a runny nose are a daily struggle during the summer months, this nasal spray should go in your shopping cart asap.
I sprayed once in each nostril before leaving the house – the blend of cellulose and peppermint acts as a barrier to airborne allergens (it works for pet allergies and dust mites too).
It provided instant relief and stopped that horrible congested headache that so often accompanies hay fever. I was impressed and will be taking it with me everywhere this summer.
I didn’t have high hopes for a simple nasal spray but it really works – just remember to reapply regularly (and after blowing your nose).
Score: 7/10
Boots Allergy Barrier Nasal Spray, £7.99 (800mg)
The allergy must-have
Most of us know that we should be wearing SPF daily (yes, even when it’s not sunny).
This one offers great protection and brilliant texture – after applying it first thing, I found the light, milky formulation didn’t leave a greasy or sticky residue. And it makes a great base for make-up (zero pilling, promise).
It’s also water-resistant, meaning it stays put when skin gets a little sweaty or if you’re planning a cooling dip somewhere.
Since pigmentation (thanks to years of sun-worshipping in my twenties) is top of my skincare concerns, I’m now applying this daily after moisturiser and before make-up. I am a firm fan.
I love the texture and high protection – and my sensitive skin experienced no redness or irritation. Result!
Score: 9/10
Ambre Solaire Anti-Dark Spots & Anti-Pollution Super UV Face Fluid SPF50+, £8 (40ml)
The sunscreen
Good news, people – forgetting to wear in a new pair of shoes doesn’t need to mean game over any more. If, like me, you only have to look at a new pair of shoes to get a blister, make these your next purchase.
I road tested these Boots Blister Plasters with a brand new pair of sandals – they use hydrocolloid technology to help heal existing blisters, relieving pain instantly and protecting against rubbing.
As most London dwellers know, park outings involve a fair bit of walking (finding a spot, grabbing refreshments and toilet trips). These held up brilliantly all day, with no pain or hobbling by the evening.
Impressive staying power despite the heat – I will keep a pack in my handbag from now on.
Score: 8/10
Boots Blister Plasters, £3.79 (5 pack)
The foot-friendly find
I love a dual-use product and this handy aftersun with built-in insect repellent saves you having to apply protection twice – perfect for lazy sun worshippers getting buzzed by bugs.
Living by the river in London means summer nights usually become a total mosquito fest, so I applied this to any bare skin on show as 6pm rolled round, then headed for outdoor drinks at my local (it’s even gentle enough to be used on the face).
Sure enough, it did exactly as it promised – silky soft skin and no bites whatsoever. Genius.
Non-sticky and quickly absorbed, this kept my
skin feeling moisturised and the mosquitos at
bay – plus, it even smells nice. I’ll be adding it
to my summer toolkit.
Score: 8/10
Soltan Soothe & Moisturise Aftersun With Insect Repellent, £10 (400ml)
The protective aftersun
Shutterstock
Take it from a self-confessed beauty junkie
– these are your essentials for looking good
and being protected in the hotter months
