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We admit it. We're SPF-obsessed.
And we want you to be too. So we're sharing our top tips and answering your FAQs so you too can become an SPF know-it-all. If you've ever wondered how much SPF to apply, what the difference is between mineral and synthetic sunscreen and what reef-safe actually means, you're in the right place.
Today (and every day), say yes to SPF.
So how exactly does SPF work and what’s the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen? The first thing to know is that there are two types of sunscreen:
- Mineral sunscreen protects you at a surface level, using small particles to sit on the skin's surface and block UV rays.
- Synthetic (or chemical) sunscreens work at a cellular level using chemical filters that convert UV rays into heat which then evaporate from the skin.
The different SPF numbers on sunscreen tells you how long it would take for UV rays to burn your skin versus wearing no SPF at all. I.e. SPF 50 will in theory protect your skin for up to 50 times longer than when left unprotected.
Wearing SPF daily will help you to prevent sunburn, skin cancer and premature ageing even in the winter months. Whilst it may seem as though you aren’t catching any sun on an overcast day, up to 80% of UV rays can still pass clouds and harm your skin.
- SPF helps to protect you against skin cancer.
- It's also the most effective preventative measure you can take against ageing.
- It can help prevent sun damage (which can take all sorts of forms like dark spots, wrinkles and broken skin).
- SPF can also help protect our skin from pollution and damaging free radicals.
- SPF formulas aren't what they used to be (they're better). Forgot those gloopy, white-cast formulas of the past and think hydrating, nourishing serums and creams.
- SPF should be the last step in your skincare routine (always apply it after moisturiser), so always apply sunscreen after your moisturiser.
- Apply every morning (yep, even cloudy days and WFH days).
- Reapply your SPF every 2 hours when you're exposed to the sun.
- A good rule of thumb is to use two finger lengths worth of SPF on your face (you want to cover everywhere).
Double the amount of sunscreen for your face, neck and arms (then double again for each leg and your torso).
Up to 6,000 tonnes of sunscreen are thought to wash into coral reefs around the world every year.
A 2016 study by The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) found that coral exposed to sunscreen ingredients oxybenzone and octinoxate showed signs of damage.
There's currently no official definition for the term 'reef-safe', but it's commonly understood to mean the SPF formula contains no oxybenzone or octinoxate.
At Naturisimo, all of our SPFs are reef-safe. Naturally.
- Add vitamin C to your daily routine to help boost the effectiveness of your SPF (and give your skin a healthy glow).
- SPF is essential for retinol-users. If you're applying retinol as part of your nighttime routine, SPF needs to be in your daytime routine.
- If you're wearing SPF all day (and of course you are), then your skin will need a double cleanse in the evening.
- Don't forget your neck and décolletage! This is often where you see most signs of sun damage.
- Your scalp and hair need protecting too (sunburnt, flaky scalps are not a good look). This Coola spray is designed to help you protect the areas you usually can't reach.
Top 5 for fine lines & wrinkles
The vitamin C edit
