It's getting to that time of year again that we should really star thinking about protecting ourselves from the sun.
Luckily in the UK (if you consider it lucky) we don't get too much sun, and our skin is not used to it. However, when the sun does have his hat on, it means we definitely make the most of it and are often too busy sunbathing to think about how often we should reapply suncreen.
Everyone knows what sunscreen is. Even the smell of it brings us back to our childhoods, but what does SPF really mean? And how often should you apply sunscreen?
How much sunscreen should you apply?
According to the NHS website you should aim to apply around 2 teaspoons of sunscreen if you're just covering your head, arms and neck or 2 tablespoons if you're covering your entire body while wearing a swimming costume.
Now you're unlikely to be carrying spoons around with you, especially for this purpose, but this is just meant as a rough guide. And if you're not sure, if you think it's too much, it probably isn't.
When should you apply sunscreen?
If you plan on spending a long time in the sun you should apply sunscreen 30 minutes before leaving the house, then reapply just before you leave.
How often should you reapply sunscreen?
You should reapply sunscreen every two hours, as the sun can dry it off your skin. Sunscreen should also be reapplied straight after you have been in water, even if it is water resistant, and after towel drying, sweating or when it may have rubbed off.
Should you use water resistant sunscreen?
If you plan on being in the water or think you will sweat you should use water-resistant sunscreen. Even when using this sunscreen you should reapply it after sweating or being in the water. Be careful when you are in the water as well, as its cooling effect can make you think you are not burning when you are.
What does SPF mean?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. The SPF number of a cream relates to how long it would take for the sun’s UV radiation to redden your skin while wearing as opposed to the amount of time it would take without any sunscreen.
The Skin Cancer Foundation, speaking on the difference SPF numbers can represent, said, "An SPF 30 allows about 3 percent of UVB rays to hit your skin. An SPF of 50 allows about 2 percent of those rays through."
While this may not seem like a massive difference, the Skin Cancer Foundation make clear that this is a bigger one than you think. They add, "That may seem like a small difference until you realise that the SPF 30 is allowing 50 percent more UV radiation onto your skin."
They also make clear that you need to be careful not to fall into a false sense of security when using SPF 50 sunscreens. They said, "People who use them tend to stay out in the sun much longer. They may skip reapplying. And they may think they don’t need to seek shade, wear a hat or cover up with clothing.
"They end up getting a lot more UV damage, which, of course, defeats the purpose."
Which SPF should you use?
According to the NHS you should use an SPF of at least 30 to protect against UVB (ultraviolet B) at least 4-star UVA (ultraviolet A) protection.
Check out the best moisturisers with SPF protection:
The best moisturisers with SPF
1 of 9CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF 25
CeraVe is one of TikTok's most recommended affordable skincare brands and comes highly praised by many beauty gurus, as well as dermatologists. The CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion with SPF 25 is a lightweight 24-hour moisturising lotion formulated to protect the skin barrier with three essential ceramides. For long-lasting hydrating, the moisturiser incorporates hyaluronic acid to help retain the skin's natural moisture.Protection: SPF 25Best for: Normal to dry skin.
£16.50
2 of 9La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+ SPF 30 with Niacinamide
La Roche-Posay has given us many a holy grail product and its SPF products are no different. Ideal for oily and blemish-prone skin types, the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Duo+ SPF30 is a non-sticky formula that works to reduce the appearance of blemishes and reveal a refined complexion. The moisturiser boasts SPF 30 to shield skin from damaging rays, protects against free radicals and prevents the appearance of hyperpigmentation.Protection: SPF 30Best for: Oily and blemish-prone skin.
3 of 9Kiehl’s Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30
Inspired by Kiehl's bestseller, the Ultra Facial Cream, this light-textured facial moisturiser provides up to 24-hour hydration with SPF 30. With a non-greasy texture, this facial cream absorbs quickly to leave skin soft and smoother. Kiehl's Ultra Facial sun cream is perfect if you're looking for intense hydration and a well-balanced moisturiser, particularly in harsh weather conditions. Protection: SPF 30Best for: Irritable and dehydrated skin.
4 of 9Glossier Invisible Shield SPF 30
If you're already a fan of Glossier, you'll love its take on a daily sunscreen. Invisible Shield is a great option for sun protection if you're a fan of serums, the lightweight SPF 30 water-gel formula feels like a serum and protects against sunburn - we're obsessed. If you've had issues with a lot of sunscreens leaving a white cast, you'll be happy to hear that this moisturiser promises none of that and no greasy residue too. Protection: SPF 30Best for: All skin types.
5 of 9Fenty Skin Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturiser SPF 30
Boasting thousands of five-star reviews, Fenty Skin's Hydra Vizor Invisible Moisturiser is the one product Rihanna can't live without. This two-in-one sunscreen and moisturiser is lightweight, oil-free, and truly invisible on all skin tones. It claps back at dehydration, discolouration, and dark spots, plus, it works well with make-up. The plush texture and fresh desert melon scent will make you want to apply every day, which you definitely should...Protection: SPF 30Best for: All skin types.
6 of 9Paula's Choice Resist Anti-Aging Skin Restoring Moisturiser SPF 50
This daily sunscreen moisturiser is ideal for people looking for more even-toned and younger-looking skin. This day cream soothes, hydrates and promotes radiant-looking skin all while protecting skin from the sun with its SPF 50. Benefiting from added niacinamide and vitamin B3, these skin-restoring ingredients work to visibly improve the appearance of enlarged pores, uneven skin tone, fine lines and dullness.Protection: SPF 50Best for: Normal to dry skin.
£39.00
7 of 9Skin Defence Multi-Protection Lotion SPF 50+
Fast-absorbing and non-greasy, Body Shop's Skin Defence Multi-Protection Lotion is its best protection ever. Combining SPF 50+, 24-hour moisturisation and anti-pollution protection, like only the best SPFs, it helps protect the future of your skin and prevent premature ageing, as well as red algae extract and vitamin C. It's going to help your skin look brighter and healthier.Protection: SPF 50+Best for: Sensitive skin.
8 of 9Clinique Superdefense SPF40 Moisturiser Gel
Treat your skin to a burst of lightweight hydration with the Clinique Superdefense SPF 40 Moisturiser Gel, a cooling formula that banishes dryness without weighing you down. Helping to improve the appearance of signs of tiredness and ageing, the gel moisturiser gives your skin a look that's thoroughly refreshed. The moisturiser is free from oil, delivering a smooth, glowy finish that's never greasy or shiny. Resisting both humidity and sweat, you can be sure hydration will be locked in throughout the day for long-lasting comfort and protection.Protection: SPF 40Best for: Tired and dry skin.
9 of 9Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Niacinamide Sunscreen
FINALLY. Glow Recipe has finally come out with a sunscreen that works alongside all its other glorious products. Ultra-lightweight, incredibly moisturising and housed in a chic shelfie-worthy bottle, this creamy dream unites ultimate sun protection with blendable benefits that your skin will no doubt thank you for. Plus, no white cast, stickiness or greasy residue, so you can enjoy dewy and glowing skin without the fuss. The SPF is launching on Cult Beauty on April 21, but you can join the waitlist now to get priority access. Protection: SPF 50Best for: All skin types.