SUN PROTECTION GUIDE

Sun protection is a foundation layer.

A science-led guide to UVA/UVB, daily SPF habits, and how to support skin when it feels sun-stressed.

Why daily SPF matters

Daily sun exposure is a major driver of pigmentation, redness, dehydration and barrier disruption — even when skin doesn’t burn. Consistent protection stabilises results across every routine.

UVA vs UVB — what the difference actually means

UVA penetrates deeply and drives pigmentation and long-term skin ageing. UVB is responsible for burning. High UVA protection is the most important daily marker for skin stability.

How to apply and reapply SPF

Use enough product, cover often-missed areas, and reapply when outdoors or after sweating. Under makeup, choose formats that don’t disturb your base and focus on consistent midday top-ups.

SPF is not a seasonal step — it’s the foundation of stable skin.

High UVA protection supports pigmentation, redness, and barrier recovery.

Recovery advisory For the next 3–7 days

Sun-stressed skin: switch to recovery mode

If your skin feels hot, tight, flushed, suddenly dull, or more reactive after sun exposure, it’s a sign the barrier is under stress. This is the moment to pause treatment and focus on recovery.

Recovery priorities

Keep the routine calm, simple, and protective.

Pause exfoliation, retinoids, acids, and any intensive ‘brightening’ treatments.
Focus on hydration, calming support, and restoring barrier comfort.
Use high-UVA protection every morning, even if you’re mostly indoors.

Simple recovery routine

Minimum effective steps, morning and night.

Gentle cleanse
Hydrating or calming serum
Barrier-support moisturiser
SPF in the morning
If you experience blistering, swelling, intense burning, or symptoms that worsen after 48 hours, it may be more than barrier stress. Pause active skincare and seek medical advice.

When to resume actives

Once skin feels calm, comfortable, and no longer reactive, reintroduce treatments slowly — one at a time.

SPF questions, answered

Short, practical answers to the most common SPF questions — so you can protect consistently without overthinking.

Do I need SPF when it’s cloudy or I’m mostly indoors?

Yes, UVA is present year-round and can pass through clouds and windows. Daily protection helps keep pigmentation, redness and long-term skin stress more stable.

Is SPF only about preventing sunburn?

No. Sunburn is mainly caused by UVB. UVA penetrates deeper and contributes to pigmentation, redness, barrier disruption, and premature skin ageing. That’s why high UVA protection matters for everyday skin health.

How much SPF do I actually need to apply?

Most people under-apply. For the face and neck, aim for roughly two finger lengths of product. Using less significantly reduces the level of protection you actually get.

Do I really need to reapply SPF during the day?

If you’re outdoors, sweating, or exposed to daylight for extended periods, yes. Reapplication helps maintain protection as filters break down over time. Lightweight, serum-like textures make midday top-ups easier without disturbing makeup.

Can SPF replace my moisturiser?

Sometimes, but not always. Many SPFs provide hydration, but if your skin is dry, sensitive, or barrier-compromised, a dedicated moisturiser underneath can improve comfort and support skin resilience.

Is higher SPF always better?

SPF number mainly refers to UVB protection. What matters just as much — if not more — is strong, stable UVA protection and a formula you’ll apply generously and consistently.

What should I do if my skin feels irritated after sun exposure?

That’s a sign the skin barrier may be under stress. Pause exfoliation and strong actives, focus on calming hydration and barrier repair, and continue using gentle, high-UVA protection while skin recovers.

Do I need SPF in winter?

Yes. UVA exposure remains relatively constant throughout the year, even when UVB levels drop. Daily SPF supports long-term skin stability across all seasons.