Why you should add SPF to your skincare routine

Harmful UV rays can affect your skin 365 days a year. Even when it's cloudy and all the sky is grey, or when you're inside and not directly in front of the sun. Therefore, it’s important to wear an SPF every day – especially if you’re keen on anything anti-aging!

WHAT IS SPF?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It's a measure of how well a sunscreen will protect skin from the sun's harmful UV rays.

If you need help knowing how protective your SPF is, look at the number:

• SPF 15 blocks about 93% of rays
• SPF 30 blocks about 97% of rays
• SPF 50 blocks about 98% of rays

WHY SHOULD I INCLUDE SPF IN MY SKINCARE ROUTINE? 

SPF is a crucial component of any skincare routine because it helps protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun's UV rays. It can help reduce risk of skin damage, prevent premature ageing and promote overall skin health. 

When incorporating SPF into your skincare routine, it's important to choose a product that is right for your skin type and lifestyle. Look for products that are labeled "broad-spectrum," meaning they protect against both UVA and UVB rays. You should also choose a product with a high enough SPF to provide adequate protection for your skin type and the amount of time you'll be spending in the sun. 

HOW TO ADD AN SPF TO MY ROUTINE?

You can apply your usual moisturiser or face cream first, let that soak in completely, and then finish your morning make-up routine with some SPF. Or, you can save time by buying a 2-in-1 SPF moisturiser. We recommend Temple Spa’s LIFE DEFENCE which is a SPF 30 Moisturiser or Urban Shield SPF50 from Germaine de Capuccini. Be sure to apply 30 minutes prior to going outdoors, then reapply every two hours when out in the sun, especially if you're excerising or swimming!

DO NOT mix an SPF sunscreen with moisturiser on your own, as this will make the sunscreen or the moisturizer less effective. In addition to this, the chemical ingredients in each product may not react well to one another, which raises a few concerns. It is best to buy one pre-combined SPF moisturiser or apply your face cream then wait a moment before layering on your SPF.

WHERE DOES SPF GO IN MY SKINCARE ROUTINE? 

SPF is applied last, after moisturiser or face oil and before any make-up. SPF doesn't treat our skin as such, it serves to protect. If your make0up contains SPF 15, it is still advisable to wear a stronger SPF underneath. 

ANYTHING ELSE I NEED TO KNOW?

No single method of sun defence can protect you perfectly, so you can’t rely on SPF alone. On particularly sunny days, be sure to wear a hat and sunglasses too, and to limit your exposure to sun.