How to find the right sun protection for your skin (and hair)

If you're feeling a little clueless, about sun protection for your skin, don't worry, we've spoken to the experts to bring to you SPF 101.

What exactly is SPF?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It measures the level of protection a product will give you from UVB. The British Association of Dermatologists recommend always using a minimum of SPF 30, which blocks 97% of UVB. To put that into context, SPF 15 blocks 93% and SPF 50 blocks 98%.

So, are there different types of UV rays?

Yes, the sun emits two different types of ultraviolet radiation: UVA and UVB. The former penetrates deep into the skin, while UVB rays are shorter, burning the surface.

How much damage can UV rays really cause?

That deep tan you have today will make your skin resemble a beat-up Mulberry tomorrow (or in 10 years' time, at least). Sun damage shows itself in the form of dullness, uneven pigmentation and loss of firmness. "Ultraviolet rays from the sun are extremely harmful to the skin and cause more than 90 per cent of the visible signs of ageing including wrinkles, sagging, rough patches and skin discolouration," confirms Dr Shirin Lakhani. Both UVA and UVB play a role in the development of skin cancer.

What's the best way to apply your SPF?

"Your sunscreen should be applied after your moisturiser and before your foundation," says Shirin. "Even if you are wearing makeup you still need to re-apply every two hours." It also needs to be applied correctly to be effective, so make sure you're using a decent amount. "Sunscreen should be applied before you leave home in the morning all year round," adds Dr Qian Xu. "Even on cloudy winter days." 

Choosing an SPF

When it comes to choosing the right facial cleanser, moisturiser or foundation, most of us always take our skin type into account.

So then how come when it comes to sun cream, we're usually left slathering on whichever lotion the 'organised' friend brought to the park?

Applying an SPF daily is essential for long-term beautiful skin, so you really should find a favourite that works well for you. 

Here's some advice on what to look out for, just in time for your summer holiday...

OILY SKIN

Is oil-free the solution for oily skin? Amanda Von Dem Hagen, Lead Developer at Glo Skin Beauty says definitely, recommending to go for a lightweight moisturiser with SPF instead.

"Many sunscreens that offer a high SPF factor tend to be a lot thicker on the skin, leaving it feeling sticky and oily, and in turn promoting further skin issues such as blocked pores and blackheads."

Julie Morris, Aesthetic Nurse Practitioner, Effortless Skin, agrees, saying oil-free sunscreen is best if you don't want your skin to feel greasy or congested.

See more Many Sunscreens