Did you know that the number one cause of visible ageing is sun exposure?

Or that sun damage can be incurred when you’re in your teens and twenties, and only show up many years later?

Fortunately, there are a slew of products out on the market that aim to shield your skin from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. Diva tests out three of the latest products.

1. Clarins Day Screen High Protection SPF 40 (UVA-UVB/PA+++)

Retail price: S$74

This oil-free sunscreen protects your skin against three threats: UVA and UVB rays, free radicals as well as environmental pollution. It contains a 100% mineral sunscreen – good for those who do not like chemical sunscreens – as well as cantaloupe melon extract, which is said to be an antioxidant and anti-ageing enzyme. It comes in two versions: transparent and pink-tinted.

We like: It dries very quickly and leaves a matt finish. It lasts well throughout the day, and doesn’t cause your foundation to smudge or run. It also has the highest SPF value of all the products we tried for this feature.

Best for: Women who want high SPF in a lightweight product that can be safely used under their regular makeup.

2. Shu Uemura UV Underbase Mousse SPF 30 PA+++

Retail price: S$78

The Japanese brand has launched a special shade of its perennial favourite UV Underbase Mousse. The new shade, BB Cream Beige, is available for a limited time only, and is, in our opinion, more effective than the existing shades in evening out one’s skin tone. With an SPF of 30 as well as protection from UVA and UVB rays, it is a convenient two-in-one product that offers sun protection as well as light coverage.

We like: It is extremely lightweight and dries quickly. It also doubles up as a make-up base, and evens out skin tone effectively without the dreaded whitish cast. Those with good complexions may be able to skip foundation and simply dust loose powder over the top.

Best for: Women who want sheer coverage and sun protection in a single lightweight product.

3. Nuxe Brightening Program Daily UV Protector SPF 30 PA+++

Retail price: S$45

This new product is rolling out in stores even as you read this. Developed as part of Nuxe's Brightening Program range of skincare, it claims to reduce skin damage from UVA/UVB rays by up to 81 per cent. It contains a number of plant extracts to shield the skin from the sun’s harmful rays as well as neutralize various chemical pollutants.

We like: The ultra-fluid texture spreads over the skin easily. It can double up as a light moisturiser for drier skins, but those with oilier skin types may find that it a tad too rich, particularly in our tropical climate.

Best for: Women with slightly drier skin types, or those who are travelling to places with drier climates.