Sun protection with the science of skincare: sunscreen for the face versus for the body
The sun’s UV rays can have a major effect on your skin’s health and the way it looks and feels. While most of us know that sunscreen is a powerful tool for protecting our skin, it’s common for women in the UK to use the same sun protection product for face and body. When you think about your sunscreen as a form of skincare, it seems odd to expect the same product to do double duty. After all, you wouldn’t use a facial moisturiser all over your body, and you wouldn’t apply body lotion to your face.
What makes facial sunscreens different from sun protection for the body?
Like facial moisturisers, sunscreen products for your face tend to be formulated differently to body moisturisers. Unlike your body, facial skin is exposed to the elements all day every day. It’s also where some of the most delicate skin – like the area under your eyes – is found. The best modern facial sunscreens are formulated to the same high standards as skincare products. They’re designed to be comfortable to wear on your face, with textures that are lighter and more easily-absorbed than sunscreens for the body. Many good-quality face sunscreens are…
- Lighter in texture than body sunscreens
- Non-greasy
- Non-comedogenic (designed not to clog pores)
- Highly effective – they have high SPF and broad-spectrum protection
- Non-perfumed, so they don’t interfere with your fragrance
- Formulated especially for different skin types – dry, oily or combination
Some sunscreen products are designed to be worn under makeup, so they absorb quickly.
Should you wear sunscreen every day?
Many of us only apply sunscreen when the sun is shining brightly, or when we’re on holiday somewhere warm. However, a growing number of women use some kind of sun protection daily, whether it’s a dedicated sunscreen product or a moisturiser or foundation with an SPF rating. This is because unlike UVB rays, UVA rays from the sun can penetrate clouds and even some window glass, and are present at a constant rate all year round. With a daily skincare routine that includes a broad-spectrum sunscreen, you can help protect your skin day in, day out against the widest possible range of UV rays.
