We're happy to welcome La Roche-Posay back as the Official Sun Protection Partner of Burj2Burj 2027.

As training builds towards 24 January, we're spending more time outdoors. An easy run before work, a weekend long run or a morning with your run club all become part of preparing for the half-marathon. Sun protection belongs in that routine, too.

‍La Roche-Posay's Anthelios sun protection reminds runners to make SPF part of their getting ready routine, alongside the shoes and watch they reach for before heading out.

So, what should that look like in practice?

‍Make it part of getting ready

It's easy to remember your sunscreen once you're already out running. Keeping it somewhere you'll see it before you leave can help. Put it beside your running kit, or make applying it part of your morning routine.

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects against UVA and UVB rays, with SPF 30 or higher and water resistance. Apply it generously to dry skin around 15 minutes before going outdoors, following the instructions on the product. That means giving yourself time before the run, rather than putting it on as you head out of the door.‍

Think beyond your face

Your face might be the first place you apply sunscreen, but your running kit leaves other areas exposed.

Cover all skin that isn't protected by clothing. Pay attention to your ears, the back of your neck and any exposed areas of your scalp, as well as your arms and legs. These are easy to overlook when you're getting ready in a hurry.

Sun protection also includes what you wear and where you spend time. Use sun-protective clothing and sunglasses, and seek shade when you can, including while you're waiting for your group or spending time outside after a run.‍

Plan for longer runs

As your long runs get longer, think about reapplication before you leave.

Sunscreen should be reapplied approximately every two hours while outdoors, and after swimming or sweating, according to the product instructions. Water resistance has a time limit, so check the label rather than assuming one application will last the whole run.

A small sunscreen that fits in with your running belt or vest can make this easier. If your route loops back past home or your car, you can also plan a stop to reapply.‍

Practice before race morning

Training gives you time to work out what feels comfortable on your skin while running. Try your sunscreen during your regular sessions so you're familiar with the product and its application instructions before Burj2Burj. Luckily for you, La Roche-Posay has a wide range of sun care that fits with every skin type.

When you're preparing your kit for the morning race, include your sun protection and allow time to apply it before heading to the start. Consider how long you'll be outdoors across the whole morning, including the time before the race and after you finish.

And keep the habit going beyond your training plan. A post-run coffee outside or an afternoon out on a rest day still calls for sun protection. You might take a rest day. The sun doesn't.

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