Is the SPF in your moisturiser enough to stop sunburn and wrinkles?
PHOTO: Yueke
As the sunshine starts to emerge, many of us begin thinking about using SPF. Despite knowing we should wear it year-round, only 26% of women use SPF on their face daily, according to skincare brand No7. The confusion around SPF contributes to this low percentage.
Is the SPF 30 in your moisturizer sufficient for a full day in the sun? Should you layer additional sun protection over your moisturizer if you spend a lot of time outside? And how do you reapply SPF when wearing makeup?
Clare O’Connor, No7's senior research scientist, emphasizes that the best sunscreen is the one you wear every day. "It's vital to include a high SPF in your daily skincare routine to protect from incidental sun damage," she says. For prolonged sun exposure, such as sitting outside for 30 minutes at lunch, she recommends reapplying your moisturizer or using a dedicated sun protection product.
Dr. Ifeoma Ejikeme, a medical consultant skin expert, notes that SPF in moisturizers is often not enough, especially for extended periods in the sun. She recommends using a standalone sunscreen with at least SPF 30, or an anti-pollution SPF to protect from environmental impurities and UVA/UVB rays.
Sun protection should be the last step in your skincare routine, applied after moisturizer, says Sara Salih, senior facialist at Pre-salons. This ensures the SPF forms a protective barrier on the skin’s surface. O’Connor suggests applying a teaspoon or two finger-lengths of SPF to the face and neck to ensure adequate coverage. Salih adds that about the size of a 50p coin should suffice for the face and neck, ensuring it doesn’t feel greasy or heavy.
Daily SPF application is crucial, regardless of weather, season, or location. UV rays can penetrate clouds and windows, causing long-term skin damage. Dr. Ejikeme advises using a higher SPF when on holiday abroad and reapplying every two hours, especially when swimming or sweating.
For makeup wearers, reapplying SPF can be tricky. O’Connor recommends using a makeup blending sponge to apply sunscreen without disrupting your makeup. For a matte finish, you can add powder on top. Salih suggests using an SPF spritz for light top-ups throughout the day. Additionally, wearing a wide-brimmed hat or seeking shade can help reduce sun exposure when reapplying sunscreen isn't feasible.
In summary, incorporating SPF into your daily skincare routine is essential for protecting your skin from sun damage and maintaining a youthful appearance.
