There is endless misinformation and marketing jargon surrounding the use of suncream out there, especially when it comes to the delicate skin on your face. Does that SPF15 in your foundation have you covered? Can a layer applied at 8am last you in the garden until sundown? Does coconut oil (or, even, mud and sand–as per trending TikTok videos) equate to natural sunscreen? The answer to all of the above is no, but that doesn’t mean keeping your skin protected in all seasons needs to be complicated. Here, cosmetic doctor and skincare expert Dr. Sophie Shotter delivers a no-nonsense guide to applying facial SPF correctly.
Currently, only 22 per cent of the UK apply SPF daily, according to a YouGov survey commissioned by FaceTheFuture, meaning many are putting are their skin health at risk. “Protecting your skin from the damaging UV rays is probably the most important way you can prevent melanomas and premature ageing. And SPF protection is needed daily – regardless of the weather,” Dr. Shotter confirms.
“As a rule of thumb, do not use less than SPF30. In the summer months use SPF50 and reapply every few hours throughout the day if you are outside in the sunshine.” (Wearing make-up? No problem: keep a SPF mist in your bag.)
Remember that there are two different types of sun filters, as Dr. Shotter explains:
Chemical filters
“These absorb the rays. Think of these filters as little sponges that collect the rays, stopping them from entering your skin and damaging it.”
Mineral filters
“Often referred to as 'physical filters', these deflect the rays. Think of them as a bat, hitting them away before they can enter the skin. Mineral sunscreens are better for sensitive skin types as the ingredients are not absorbed by the skin. In contrast, chemical sunscreens do penetrate the skin.”
The broad-spectrum breakdown
Whichever sunscreen you choose, you must make sure it delivers both UVA and UVB protection. This is commonly referred to as a 'broad-spectrum' sunscreen. Think of it like this, Dr. Shotter says:
"UVA Protects against the Ageing rays."
"UVB protects against the Burning rays."
How much SPF to apply
“You should generally think of a dessert spoon amount when applying SPF to your face. But if you need more, go for it!”
If you don’t have a spoon to hand, know that this amount roughly equates to the length of two fingers. While this may sound like a lot, consider that it should cover your whole face, eyelids, lips, tops of ears and the neck.
How to maximise the benefits of your SPF
“It’s also ideal to use an antioxidant serum containing vitamin C before you apply a SPF product as it will increase your protection,” adds Dr. Shotter. “Antioxidants fight free radical molecules that damage your DNA, thus leading to premature ageing. Antioxidant serums are the perfect partner to your SPF cream. Wearing both will give you the best protection against the sun’s rays and help to keep your skin healthy and vibrant.”
