SPF: Sun Protection Guide

Introduction to Suncare

Who should use sunscreen?
Sun protection should be a crucial part of everyone's skincare routine, including children over 6 months, helping to minimise the damaging effects of the sun.

How can this guide help?
With so many SPF products available, from creams, sprays and sticks to varying SPF strengths, it's important to know how to choose your suncare and to use it effectively. Here, we answer the most commonly asked questions about SPF to help shed some light.

SPF Explained

What does SPF stand for?

Sunscreen products each have an SPF rating which stands for sun protection factor (SPF). This tells you the amount of ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation it is designed to help protect your skin from.

Why wear SPF every day?

Applying SPF every day is the most effective way to help to protect your skin, as UV exposure happens even when it's cloudy, cold, or you're mostly indoors near windows.

What's the difference between UVA and UVB?

UVB: ultraviolet B radiation refers to harmful sun rays that can damage top layers of the skin, such as causing sunburn.

ultraviolet A refers to electromagnetic radiation from the sun that penetrates deep into the skin, which can contribute to skin ageing and skin cancer.

Choosing Your Sunscreen

Depending on your skin type and preference, you can choose a low, medium, high or very high SPF, with SPF 30 and SPF 50 being two of most commonly used.

SPF 30 or SPF 50?
SFP 30: works to block approximately 97% of UVB rays
SPF 50: works to block approximately 98% of UVB rays
While the difference may seem small, SPF 50 offers slightly higher protection, which can be important for fair skin, sensitive skin, or intense sun exposure. However, no SPF blocks 100% of UV rays, so reapplication and correctly applying enough product is important.

Mineral or chemical?
Mineral sunscreen: tends to have a heavier, mineral-enriched formula that sits on the surface of your skin and can feel thicker.
Chemical sunscreen: formulated with a more lightweight texture that sinks into the skin and provides a sheer finish.

SPF stick, spray or cream?
SPF Cream
Best for: daily facial use, dry or sensitive skin, thorough coverage.
Pros: easier to see where you've applied for more even coverage and often contains hydrating ingredients.
Cons: can feel heavier or greasy on oily skin and may take longer to absorb.
SPF Spray
Best for: quick application, hard-to-reach areas, reapplying on the go.
Pros: lightweight, fast to apply, convenient for body and scalp.
Cons: can be difficult to ensure even coverage, wind may blow product away and not always suitable for face (unless specified).
SPF Stick
Best for: targeted areas (nose, ears, lips), travel, touch-ups.
Pros: mess-free, portable, great for small areas and sensitive spots.
Cons: not ideal for covering large areas and may require blending with fingers.

Final Sun Protection Tip

When helping to protect your skin from the sun, also remember to stay in the shade, avoiding the sun when it is at its strongest, and wear suitable clothing such as long-sleeved shirts, loose trousers and hats.