Why You Need To Wear SPF Everyday + The Best SPFs For You
Simply put, SPF reduces signs of ageing and protects the skin's barriers against harmful UV rays radiated from the sun. Many might not know this, but SPF should be worn every day, even when the sun isn’t shining outside as invisible rays are emitted all year round.
Sunscreen protects our skin against Ultraviolet B (UVB) rays which cause sunburn. However, Ultraviolet A (UVA) rays also pose a risk, as they age the skin and contribute to skin cancer. Sunscreen does not provide protection for those UVA rays and so it’s best to search for SPF that can defend your skin against both, otherwise known as ‘broad spectrum’.
The number found on SPF bottles is an indication as to how much protection your skin will have. The higher the number the greater your protection, but don’t be fooled into thinking that a higher SPF means you can spend longer in the sun! The American Academy of Dermatology advises a daily use of SPF 30 for all skin types.
For daily use, it can take a while to find the perfect sunscreen for you. You might want to consider the texture you’re looking for, if it’s water resistant and make sure it doesn’t leave a white cast. Make sure you search for a broad-spectrum SPF that protects you against both UVA and UVB rays and consider your outdoor activity.
You can find moisturisers that contain SPF if you want the best of both worlds and require less product application. The Dermalogica Prism Protect 30 moisturiser is a highly rated product which is also broad-spectrum. Additionally, this multitasking moisturiser uses antioxidant technology which helps protect skin against pollution!
Fenty Skin’s Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturiser Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen is a jam-packed formula designed with rich skin tones in mind. This vegan, oil-free and invisible moisturiser fights dark spots, discolouration and leaves zero chalkiness! Over a long period of time, this product can improve your skin in many ways, all the while protecting yourself against harmful UV rays and uses refillable packaging to minimise waste. This product literally ticks all the boxes for our skin's needs.
For a little extra coverage for no makeup, makeup days, Bareminerals Complexion Rescue Tinted Gel Cream is a staple. This is a light formula consisting of 20 shades for a sheer-to-medium coverage, which gives you hydrating benefits with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30. This award-winning tinted moisturiser for dewy and healthy-looking skin, is available to find on the Slapp App!
For a simple daily sunscreen, you can look no further than Glossier’s own water-gel formula. The Invisible Shield is a transparent formula that doesn’t leave your face feeling greasy and leaves no white cast, therefore all skin tones friendly. This vegan formula sits well underneath makeup as it instantly absorbs into the skin - what more could we ask for?
Another daily sunscreen that doesn’t break the bank is the Garnier Ambre Solaire Ultra-Light Sensitive Face Fluid 50+. This sunscreen doesn’t just have an SPF of 50+ and protect you against UVA, UVB and long UVA rays, but also contains hyaluronic acid, which helps our skin stay hydrated for 24 hours. This SPF is also perfect for people who have sensitive skin and might suffer from irritated skin.
AJC