It’s essential to understand what causes sunburn and why it’s important to incorporate SPF into your routine. Here’s what you need to know, according to a beauty expert
As summer is fast approaching and the sun has already made a much welcome appearance in recent weeks, many Brits are stocking up on sun protection ahead of the warmer weather.
To effectively guard against sun damage – including sunburn – it’s crucial to understand what causes it and why it’s important to incorporate SPF into your daily routine. Sunscreen isn’t just for beach days and holidays; most people encounter sun exposure daily, and with it, the associated risks.
As a fair-skinned beauty writer who burns even through a window on a cloudy day, and with a family history of skin cancer, I’m extremely passionate about applying SPF. I used to work at Boots selling sunscreen to customers and have tried and tested dozens of formulas over the years.
‘Comfortable’ linen trousers from GAP are a must-have for easy, breezy summer style
‘I’ve brought out my favourite spring perfume now the warm weather is back’
Whether you’re new to daily SPF or looking to enhance your protection routine, this guide will assist in understanding what sunburn is and why it happens, how sun exposure is linked to skin ageing, and how to effectively shield your skin.
What is sunburn?
According to the NHS website, sunburn is ‘hot and sore skin caused by too much sun’. It’s essentially the skin’s inflammatory response to excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, typically from the sun, but it can also be caused by artificial sources like sunbeds, reports Surrey Live.
Sunburn can cause redness, heat, pain and sometimes blistering, with the NHS warning: “It may flake and peel after a few days”. While the effects are usually temporary and ‘typically get better within seven days’, sunburn can lead to irreversible cellular damage, increasing the risk of skin cancer and speeding up skin ageing.
The NHS reiterated: “Ultraviolet (UV) light is the most common cause of melanoma. It comes from the sun and is used in sunbeds.”
What causes sunburn?
Two main types of UV rays, UVA and UVB rays, are responsible for sunburn. When choosing a sunscreen, it’s crucial to remember this as not all products on the market protect against both.
- UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, damaging collagen and elastin, which leads to premature ageing.
- UVB rays are more intense and cause sunburns and DNA damage, potentially leading to skin cancer.
Both types contribute to sunburn and long-term skin damage, making broad-spectrum protection vital.
The impact of sun damage on skin ageing
Photoaging is the result of prolonged sun exposure, where UVA rays break down the skin’s structural proteins, like collagen and elastin. This causes fine lines and wrinkles, sagging skin, uneven texture and tone, age spots or hyperpigmentation.
Scientists from No7, working in collaboration with the University of Manchester, have devoted years to studying skin ageing. Their findings have enabled the brand to create effective products, such as the Future Renew UV Defense Shield SPF 50, designed to combat the issue.
According to Clare O’Connor, No7 Senior Research Scientist: “While age and time are factors in skin ageing, exposure to UV light is the single biggest cause of accelerated appearance of skin damage. While the cells on the surface of our skin constantly turn over and renew, deeper within skin there are cells and proteins, such as collagen, that are incredibly long lived and can last our whole lifetime. Even short bursts of sun exposure cause damage to these cells and proteins which builds up, eventually being displayed as visible signs of sun damage such as dryness, uneven texture, lines and wrinkles, uneven skin tone and loss of firmness.”
Selecting the right sunscreen
When purchasing sun protection, several key factors should be considered. Firstly, opt for a broad-spectrum SPF that shields against both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays. Ensure the product has two types of ratings: an SPF rating and a UVA Star Rating. The Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rating measures UVB protection.
SPF 30 blocks roughly 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. Some products also include a star rating from one to five or the UVA circle logo, with more stars indicating higher UVA protection.
Despite the need for regular reapplication of sunscreen, those labelled as water-resistant are more practical for sports, swimming, or sweating. Other factors to consider, especially when selecting sunscreen for the face, include whether you have oily or acne-prone skin. In such cases, look for terms like ‘non-comedogenic’. If you have dry or sensitive skin, you might prefer hydrating or mineral-based sunscreens.
Mineral vs Chemical Sunscreen
Mineral sunscreen reflects UV rays from the skin using zinc or titanium dioxide. It’s typically gentle on sensitive skin and starts working immediately. However, it often has a thicker texture and can sometimes leave a white cast.
Chemical sunscreen absorbs UV and converts it into heat through chemical filters. These sunscreens tend to be lightweight, blend easily and are ideal for daily wear, but they should be applied at least 15 minutes before sun exposure. Chemical sunscreens can sometimes irritate sensitive skin, and some ingredients commonly found in them can harm the environment, particularly coral reefs and marine life.
Best sun protection for face
La Roche-Posay Anthelios UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid Non-Perfumed Suncream SPF50+ 50ml – £20
This Ultra Light Invisible Fluid SPF50+ is dermatologist recommended, ultra-resistant to water, sweat and sand making it the perfect beach beauty bestie. Most importantly, it leaves no white cast or eye-sting. It’s a lightweight, chemical formula that has a matte finish and is fragrance-free as well as non-comedogenic making it great for those with oily or sensitive skin.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF30 50ml – £36.50
The cult-loved invisible Unseen Sunscreen has a white cast-free gel formula, and even doubles as primer, designed to be applied under makeup for a natural-looking finish. Enriched with red algae, the facial sunscreen nourishes the skin with a rich blend of fatty acids, however, the SPF50 version doesn’t seem to be as readily available online as the SPF30, which may be frustrating for those looking for maximum protection.
Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF30 – £17
For a more affordable and mineral option, the Beauty of Joseon Daily Tinted Fluid Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF30 is a 100% mineral SPF that offers broad spectrum UV protection SPF 30. This triple-action K-beauty formula acts like an SPF, appears like a tint, and feels like skincare.
Available in 12 shades, it’s suitable for all skin types and ideal for lighter, sunnier months, providing a comfortable, lightweight finish that is neither too dewy nor too matte.
Best body SPF
Ultra Violette’s Extreme Screen Hydrating Body and Hand Skinscreen SPF50+ – £27
Ultra Violette are best known for their range of ‘skinscreens’ which are designed to be hydrating, blend seamlessly with other skincare and makeup, and provide effective protection against UV rays. Beauty writer Faith Richardson said of the formula: “It has a gorgeous coconut smell which instantly screams summer, and the consistency is thin enough to be able to spread and rub in easily without being runny or dripping off you. The Ultra Violette Skinscreen soaked straight into my skin and felt dry to the touch in under a minute, without the faintest trace of stickiness or greasy, oily residue.”
Sol de Janeiro Rio Radiance Body Spray SPF 50 200ml – £36
The Rio Radiance SPF 50 Body Spray (200ml) is a moisturising sunscreen packed with skincare ingredients such as niacinamide, cupuaçu butter and coconut water. As this lightweight mist absorbs, it leaves a natural, radiant sheen while protecting your skin from sun damage.
The formula features an irresistible beachy scent with notes of sweet coconut, warm sand, creamy vanilla, and sensual amber essence, a blend of accords many shoppers have praised for “smelling divine”.
P20 Original SPF30 Spray 200ml – £29.99
Offering high UVA protection combined with a hypoallergenic formulation, the P20 Original provides up to 10 hours of protection and is gentle enough for use on sensitive skin, including children. Delivering a high-performance formulation, the P20 Original SPF30 claims to remain 90% effective even after swimming.
With a non-greasy texture, it absorbs quickly without affecting make-up, while also being sweat-resistant and free from harmful ingredients. The preservative-free formula also claims to help restore the skin’s natural moisture levels, leaving it glowing and youthful. Acting as both a sunblock and anti-ageing shield, Riemann P20 SPF30 is billed as a reliable essential for all-day sun protection.
Best for scalp and hair
COOLA Organic Scalp and Hair Mist SPF 30 – £29
If a hat doesn’t quite match your ensemble, the Coola SPF 30 Scalp and Hair Sunscreen Mist is specifically designed to be applied to your parting and hairline to shield it from sun exposure. It boasts SPF 30 sun protection and is enriched with aloe vera and cucumber to cool and soothe your skin, while leaving a weightless, non-greasy finish on your hair. It can (and should) be reapplied throughout the day for continuous sun protection, without affecting your hair’s appearance, making it a beauty must-have for any summer event.
Supergoop! (Re)setting Powder SPF 30 – £30
Perfect for over makeup or in hairlines and partings, this mineral makeup setting powder doubles as sun protection and a mattifying setting powder. Equipped with a built-in brush, you simply dust it over the face at regular intervals to control shine and prevent sun damage.
The powder itself is invisible on the skin and can be used on your hairline and parting to prevent sunburn on your scalp, which some may prefer over spray-on mists and oils that can leave hair feeling greasy.
SPF Beauty boxes
If you’re keen to sample a variety of brands and products, a beauty box might be your best bet. Cult Beauty, a popular online retailer, has this Set for Sun Edit, valued at £175, which includes a selection of SPF champions to shield your face, hair, and body. It’s priced at £40, allowing customers to discover a high-performance range of SPF essentials from top-tier brands, all while saving over 75%.
Is it necessary to use SPF every day?
Absolutely. It’s particularly crucial to be cautious when the UV index is high – this information can usually be found on the Weather app on your mobile.
Other factors that could heighten your sun exposure include being at a higher altitude, proximity to water, snow, or sand, which reflect UV rays, or if you’re using exfoliants, retinol, or acne treatments that increase sun sensitivity.
Does sunscreen have an expiry date?
Indeed, sunscreen does expire and its effectiveness diminishes over time. Most sunscreens come with an expiration date, typically within three years, after which they may not offer the same level of protection.
Top tips for effective sun protection
- Apply 15–30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapply every 2 hours, and after swimming or sweating.
- Use a shot-glass amount for the body and 1/4 teaspoon for the face.
- Don’t overlook ears, neck, hands, feet, and hairline.
- Combine with hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing for comprehensive coverage.
