A:

When it comes to SPF products, there are a lot of misconceptions that can leave us feeling a little confused. As Q+A is about taking the confusion out of skincare, it seemed right for us to set the SPF record straight once and for all! From UV rays on cloudy days to the truth about SPF in makeup, we're breaking it all down to help keep your skin healthy, happy and protected. So, let’s dive in…

Myth #1: UV rays can’t reach you through windows

While it's true that most glass windows can block UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburn, UVA rays can still penetrate through. These rays can penetrate deeper into the layers of the skin, leading to skin damage and premature ageing. It’s important to protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen to shield against both UVA and UVB rays. Whether you're commuting in your car or spending long hours indoors near a window.

Myth #2: You don’t need to wear sunscreen on cold, cloudy days

Although clouds can block some sunlight, UV rays can still penetrate through to reach your skin. Therefore, wearing SPF is essential, even on overcast days. A cloudy day can still result in both sunburn and UVA-related damage, so make sure to apply sunscreen daily as part of your morning skincare regime. Temperature does not necessarily correlate with the UV index, so, don’t let a cold day tempt you to skip sunscreen application.

Myth #3: Sunscreen will leave my skin greasy and cause me to breakout

Traditional sunscreens can contain up to 50% UV filters which leave the skin feeling greasy and congested. Our daily sunscreens are formulated with an amazingly low inclusion of UV filters to ensure a non-greasy, feather-light, and fast-absorbing formula. Using new-generation encapsulation technology, we can maximise the performance of UV filters while maintaining a high sun-protection factor and broad-spectrum protection (click here to learn more about our mineral-hybrid UV filters).

If you’re concerned about SPF causing your skin to break out, we’ve got the perfect option. Our Niacinamide SPF 50 Balancing Daily Sunscreen has been formulated with a unique gel-cream base that’s lightweight and breathable on the skin. Rather than adding to an overproduction of oil, this Niacinamide enriched sunscreen helps to rebalance the skin, leaving it silky-smooth to the touch.

Myth #4: I can skip sunscreen if my makeup includes SPF

While makeup may have some SPF, it’s unlikely that it will provide broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This is essential to help shield the skin against all kinds of skin damage. Additionally, the amount of makeup normally applied isn't sufficient to achieve full protection. For maximum protection, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen like our Peptide SPF 50 Anti-Ageing Daily Sunscreen under your makeup. The rejuvenating ingredients not only shield your skin but also create a smooth, radiant base for makeup application. There’s no harm in doubling up, so feel free to layer with SPF makeup and reapply throughout the day to maintain protection.

Myth #5: If you’re not prone to burning, you don’t need to wear sunscreen daily

Sunburn is just one of the many ways UV rays can damage your skin. If you want to keep your skin looking youthful, daily sunscreen is crucial for protecting against signs of premature ageing like wrinkles (it also helps to protect against some types of skin cancer). Therefore, no matter your skin type or tone, incorporating SPF into your daily skincare routine is essential for long-term skin health.

It's our mission to demystify skincare, so if you have any more myths that need debunking, make sure to send them our way via Instagram or email! If you’re not already protecting your skin, make sure to check out our brand-new range of SPF 50 Daily Sunscreens. 

Supercharged with your favourite active ingredients, there’s a product for every skin type. With broad-spectrum protection and lightweight formulas, we've got you covered for all your sun protection needs!

Until next time,

Charlee @ Team Q+A