What you need to know about protecting your face from the sun

Do I really need to wear sun protection every day?

Yes! And I shall explain why…and help you find an SPF that feels comfortable on your skin.

Sun protection isn’t just for sunny holidays. It’s essential all year round. Not only is sunlight a leading cause of skin cancer, but it’s also responsible for up to 80% of visible skin ageing. Fine lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone and loss of firmness are far more influenced by sun exposure than by age alone.

In summer, we tend to focus on UVB rays because they cause sunburn. However, UVA rays are just as important, if not more so. They penetrate deeper into the skin, breaking down collagen fibres so we lose structure and firmness of the dermis. UVA rays are present all year round, even on cloudy days.

But guess what: daily sunscreen application can actually make your skin appear more youthful! A 2016 study found that using SPF 30 every day for one year improved skin texture, clarity, and pigmentation by 40–52%.

So, how do I choose a sunscreen that I enjoy wearing?

It is important to use a dedicated sunscreen rather than relying solely on makeup or moisturiser with SPF. To achieve proper protection, you need around ¼ teaspoon, or 2 pea sized amounts, of product for your face – more than most people typically apply with cosmetics alone.

Mineral (physical) sunscreens contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which sit on the surface of the skin and reflect UV rays. These are usually effective immediately after application. They are ideal for sensitive skin as they do not create heat in sun exposure so are less likely to cause irritation. However, most formulations will leave a slight white cast.

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV light and release it in heat form. These formulations are typically lighter in texture and leave no white cast. They need to be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure and may not suit very sensitive skin due to the heat formation.

Whichever type you choose, make sure your sunscreen is broad spectrum (protects against both UVA and UVB rays) and SPF 30 or higher, as recommended by the British Skin Foundation. If you’re spending time outdoors remember to reapply every two hours, and reapply after exercising or swimming.

Layering sunscreen with SPF makeup can help boost protection. SPF powder compacts or spray on sunscreen formulations are especially useful for topping up throughout the day.

“But I Work Indoors…”

Even if you’re inside for most of the day, UV rays can still reach your skin through windows and during short periods outdoors – like walking at lunchtime, driving, or hanging out the washing.

With our modern lifestyles, it has also been found that 10% of skin ageing is linked to high-energy visible (HEV) blue light and infrared radiation. Blue light comes from everyday devices such as phones, laptops, and TVs, and has been shown to contribute to collagen breakdown and reduced skin elasticity.

Many modern sunscreens now include protection against blue light and infrared, making them a smart choice for everyday use.

By incorporating the right sunscreen into your daily skincare routine, protecting your skin doesn’t have to feel like a chore. It’s simply about finding a formula that suits your skin type and lifestyle so you can wear it comfortably every day. If you’d like personalised advice, you’re very welcome to visit me in clinic for a medical-grade skincare consultation.

So put on your sunscreen, hat and sunglasses and enjoy yourself!