What better time to discuss SPF than as the weather’s warming up! Despite more information being available than ever before many people still only wear sun cream when the sun is out or while on their summer holiday. Proper skin protection is absolutely the best thing you can do for the health of your skin today and for slowing down the effects of aging. So if you’re not already wearing sunscreen every day keep reading to learn how to get started.
What sunscreen should I buy?
When buying a sunscreen you need to ensure it is ‘broad spectrum’ meaning it will protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. While both types of rays can both cause burns and premature aging the UVA rays are responsible ofr fine lines a dark spots and UVB rays have most significant role in producing sun burn and skin cancer. The easiest way to remember the difference between the two is UVA(ging) and UVB(urning).
When should I wear sunscreen?
The short answer is all the time. And yes that includes during the winter. Even on the cloudiest of days sun rays penetrate through the cloud and can still cause damage to your skin. And please don’t think this only applies to people with fair skin tones – it doesn’t! You should be wearing a sunscreen daily regardless of your skin tone to protect against aging and skin damage.
Where should I apply sunscreen?
The simple answer is everywhere that’s exposed to the sun! Sun screen should be applied to your face every day (don’t forget your ears). And don’t forget the tops of your feet when wearing flip flops or sandals.
How much should I apply?
Sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) between 30 and 50 should be applied liberally at least 30 minutes prior to sun exposure to ensure you fully protect your skin – rub it in gently allowing your skin to absorb the cream. As a guide half a teaspoon or sunscreen (or two finger lengths) is good for your face and neck and a shot glass full for your entire body. Just bear in mind sunscreens naturally breakdown over time so re-applying every 2 hours is recommend (and more frequently when swimming).
Consider the different types?
You may find it’s a bit of trail and error before you find a sunscreen that you love and are happy wearing everyday. And as with choosing make-up, your decision is likely to come down to how they blend into your skin, whether you like the smell etc. Here’s my pick of sunscreens for different skin types so whatever your skin needs you can stay safe in the sun;
For make-up wearers – a tinted foundation which contains a broad spectrum SPF is a quick and easy way to ensure your protecting your skin against harmful rays without adding extra time to your morning routine. I like Tropic’s skin shade tinted facial sun cream, a 100% mineral SPF50 facial sun cream that offers broad-spectrum protection. In addition to shielding you from the suns damaging rays the slight tint give you a really radiant glow.
https://tropicskincare.com/products/skin-shade-tinted-facial-sun-cream
For Easily Irritated, Sensitive Skin – Whether you’re prone to burning as soon as soon as the sun hits your skin, you’re hyper-sensitive to chemicals or you struggle with prickly heat the La-Roche anthelios uvmune 400 invisible fluid spf is specially formulated for all struggles associated with sensitive skin.
https://www.boots.com/la-roche-posay-anthelios-uvmune-400-invisible-fluid-spf50-50ml-10306562
The 2-in-1 moisturiser & spf – Adding a daily sun protection into your routine is a no-brainer with this 2-in-1 moisturiser and SPF hybrid. Whether you’re new to a daily SPF or simply trying to streamline your routine, this is a great pick. And what’s more it contains collagen, an essential component of the skin supporting your skin’s structure.
For Acne-Prone Skin – Dermalogica’s oil free SPF matte sunscreen not only protects against the sun, but actually treats acne and soothes inflammation, while absorbing excess oil to prevent future breakouts. Perfect for those with oily skin or people who find regular sunscreens too greasy, this sheer, lightweight cream boasts an oil-free formula that won’t clog pores.
https://www.dermalogica.co.uk/products/oil-free-matte-spf30
What’s your favourite sun screen?
With the weather warming up and
Proper skin protection is the best thing you can do for the health of your skin today — and slow down the effects of aging tomorrow. “We know that sunscreen is valuable from a skin cancer and sun damage perspective, as well as something that helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles,” says Marisa K. Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City and an assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Cornell – New York Presbyterian Medical Center.
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