As a skincare specialist, one of the most common skin mistakes I encounter is the underestimation of sunscreen’s importance. The sun might feel warm and welcoming, but its rays can do serious damage to your skin. From premature ageing to hyperpigmentation and even skin cancer, the effects of sun exposure are nothing to take lightly. So, let’s dive into why SPF is your skin’s best friend, how to choose the right one for your skin type, and some tips on making it a non-negotiable part of your daily routine.
Is SPF 30 or SPF 50 Best For Your Face?
When you compare SPF 30 vs. SPF 50, you’ll notice that SPF 50 offers slightly more protection (about 98% of UVB rays compared to 97% for SPF 30). It also blocks the sun for longer, which is why I generally recommend my clients use SPF 50 for their face.
As there is so much delicate skin on your face, I like to recommend the highest level of protection. This is why I personally prefer to use SPF 50 on my own and my client’s skin.
Why You Need SPF EVERY DAY
Preventing Premature Ageing
One of the top reasons to wear sunscreen daily is to fend off premature ageing. Those UV rays can break down collagen and elastin, which are essential for keeping your skin firm and wrinkle-free. I’ve seen it time and again—clients who diligently use SPF maintain that youthful glow much longer than those who don’t.
Combatting Hyperpigmentation
Another big issue that sunscreen can help with is hyperpigmentation. This condition, where certain areas of your skin get darker due to excess melanin production, is often triggered by sun exposure. By wearing sunscreen, you can prevent these dark spots from forming and protect the ones you already have from getting worse.
Protecting Against Skin Cancer
The most important reason for using SPF? Protecting yourself against skin cancer. Research shows that regular sunscreen use significantly reduces the risk of melanoma and other skin cancers. If that’s not enough reason to make SPF a daily habit, I don’t know what is!
Choosing the Right SPF for Your Skin Type
SPF for Acne-Prone Skin
If you have acne-prone skin, picking the right sunscreen is even more critical. Some sunscreens can exacerbate breakouts due to heavy oils or pore-clogging ingredients. Stick to oil-free formulations labelled as “non-comedogenic” or “non-acnegenic.” Mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide are also a safe bet—they provide excellent protection without irritating sensitive, acne-prone skin.
Avoiding White Cast
Avoiding white cast is a problem when it comes to SPF, especially if you have darker skin. To avoid this, look for tinted mineral sunscreens or opt for chemical sunscreens, which offer effective protection without that chalky finish.
Can You Wear Sunscreen with Makeup?
The answer is that you can and you should. SPF should be the next step in your morning routine after applying your moisturiser and can actually help in achieving that dewy, glass skin effect beneath your foundation!
A top tip for reapplying sunscreen throughout the day is to look for products in powder or spray form as these can invisibly on top of your makeup.
Reapply Regularly
Which brings me to one of the biggest sunscreen mistakes I see. Not reapplying it throughout the day. Even if you’re using SPF 50, its effectiveness decreases over time, especially if you’re out in the sun, sweating, or swimming. Set a reminder on your phone to reapply every two hours when you’re outdoors—it’s a simple step that can make a big difference.
My favourite SPFs:
 EVY SPF 50 EVY is lightweight and doesn’t leave a white film or clog pores. It is ideal to use as a primer under make-up as it also protects against skin irritation caused by cosmetics. |  Avocado Zinc SPF 50 Natural Tint Moisturiser Provides excellent coverage, evens out skin tone, hides blemishes and blends incredibly well across all skin colours. |
So why do you need SPF? Daily sunscreen use is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Whether you’re concerned about premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, acne breakouts, or the serious risk of skin cancer, SPF is your go-to defence.
Emma - your trusted Skin Specialist
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