The One Product Your Skin Truly Cannot Do Without
We talk a lot about serums, treatments, and clinic appointments — and all of those things absolutely have their place. But if there is one product that forms the non-negotiable foundation of any good skincare routine, it is a broad-spectrum SPF. Whether you are stepping out on a bright summer's day or heading to work on a grey Tuesday in November, your skin is being exposed to ultraviolet radiation every single day.
What Does SPF Actually Do?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it measures how well a product protects your skin from UVB rays — the rays primarily responsible for burning. However, it is equally important to look for broad-spectrum protection, which means the product also shields you from UVA rays. UVA rays penetrate more deeply into the skin and are strongly associated with premature ageing, pigmentation, and the breakdown of collagen over time.
In the UK, look for the UVA star rating on the packaging alongside the SPF number. A rating of four or five stars alongside SPF 30 or higher is considered excellent protection.
Common SPF Myths — Debunked
- "I don't need SPF in winter or on cloudy days." Up to 80% of UV rays can pass through cloud cover, so protection is needed year-round.
- "My foundation has SPF in it, so I'm covered." Cosmetic SPF can help, but most people do not apply enough foundation to achieve the stated protection level. A dedicated SPF worn underneath is always the better approach.
- "SPF will make my skin greasy or break me out." Formulations have come a long way. There are now lightweight, mattifying, and tinted options to suit every skin type, including oily and acne-prone skin.
How to Choose the Right SPF for You
With so many options on the market, it can feel overwhelming. Here are a few things to consider:
- SPF level: We recommend a minimum of SPF 30 for daily use, and SPF 50 if you are spending extended time outdoors or have concerns around pigmentation.
- Your skin type: Oily skin tends to suit gel or fluid formulas, whilst drier skin types often benefit from a more nourishing, cream-based SPF.
- Mineral vs chemical filters: Both offer effective protection. Mineral SPFs (containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) sit on the surface of the skin and are often better tolerated by sensitive skin types.
SPF and Your Aesthetic Treatments
If you have invested in professional skincare treatments, wearing SPF daily is essential to protecting those results. Many treatments work to improve skin tone, texture, and radiance — and unprotected sun exposure can undo that progress over time, particularly when it comes to post-treatment pigmentation.
Applying your SPF every morning — and reapplying every two hours when outdoors — is one of the simplest and most effective things you can do for your long-term skin health.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Everyone's skin is different, and what works beautifully for one person may not suit another. If you would like personalised guidance on building a skincare routine that works for your skin concerns and goals, we would love to help. Book a consultation with our team and we can walk you through the options that are right for you.