The sun may not be scorching down on us every day, but gloomy days don't mean skipping out on the most important step of your skincare routine–SPF. Contrary to popular belief, even days without the sun can lead to skin damage. Hidden behind the cloudy sky are the harmful UV rays that are a major cause for skin troubles.
It can be easy to get lazy about layering on products when stepping out, but foregoing sunscreen can soon become your worst nightmare. UVA rays lead to ageing, whereas UVB rays lead to burning. So if you've been skipping on SPF, here are four small yet important reminders on why you shouldn't!
Reduces the risk of cancer
Sunscreen goes beyond just beauty benefits, it also has health benefits. Wearing sunscreen regularly over time has been shown to help reduce the risk of various types of skin cancers.
Prevents signs of premature ageing
Looking youthful and radiant is a dream for all of us. To make it a reality, it is important to start using sunscreen. It shields the skin adding a protective layer to delay the signs of ageing like fine lines, wrinkles and pigmentation.
Protects the skin from sunburns and suntan
One of the most obvious reasons a majority of us use sunscreen is to protect our skin from sun damage, especially sunburns. And when the sun is shining so bright, amping up the SPF is recommended to prevent a tan.
Shield your skin from the harmful UV rays
With the depletion of the ozone layer, year after year the UV rays in the environment are getting stronger. Applying sunscreen prevents the penetration of harmful rays into the layers of skin.
Be sure to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before stepping out, and if you're out for a long duration, re-apply it every 3-4 hours.
To help you enhance your skincare routine and skip the scouting for a great sunscreen, here are our top five recommendations. These not only give you maximum protection but are also tinted with a surge of moisturise to leave your skin with a natural glow.
1. BareMinerals Skinlongevity Vital Power Moisturiser SPF 30
Promoting a healthier and younger-looking appearance, delivering the goodness of a moisturiser and protector in one, this broad-spectrum mineral-based SPF 30 helps prevent signs of premature ageing. It further restores essential moisture and protects skin's radiant glow.
BareMinerals SkinLongevity Vital Power Day Cream SPF 30 50ml, £37.50
2. Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face SPF50
Take care of your skin with Clinique's Mineral Sunscreen Fluid For Face SPF50, a lightweight mineral sun lotion that provides broad-spectrum sun protection.
Clinique Mineral Sunscreen Fluid for Face SPF50, £23
3. Clarins UV Plus Anti-Pollution SPF 50
An intelligent formula that fights the harmful effects of blue and UV light, as well as pollen and indoor pollution, this is the ultimate skin protector. Made using organic mango leaf extract, it promises eight hours of hydration and all-round protection.
Clarins UV Plus Anti-Pollution SPF 50, £33
4. Sisley Paris Tinted Sun Care Stick SPF 50
Make sunscreen application a breeze with this Sisley stick sunscreen. Toss it into your bag without worrying about spillages, and add a slight tint to perk up your look. Enriched with ingredients like shea, camellia oil and mango butter, it hydrates and smoothens skin.
Sisley Paris Tinted Sun Care Stick SPF 50, £82
5. La Mer The SPF 50 UV Protecting Fluid
Soothe your skin with the luxurious La Mer sunscreen. A lightweight formula with a silky-smooth texture, it hydrates, nourishes and prevents the skins from sun damage all at once.
La Mer The SPF 50 UV Protecting Fluid (50ml), £88