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This week marks the start of Sun Awareness Week, making it the perfect time to shed some light on the importance of SPF in safeguarding against some common concerns. There’s a reason we talk so much about applying sunscreen daily, and it’s not only to keep your skin looking good. To provide some expert insight, I’ve enlisted the help of Joanna, our Senior Development Chemist, to dive into the topic.

Over to you Joanna...

The first and perhaps most commonly known way SPF protects the skin is against sunburn. When ultraviolet (UV) light is absorbed by the skin, it can damage skin cells and, most importantly, DNA. This damage to the DNA triggers the production of specific proteins and enzymes, which causes an increase in blood flow to the affected areas, resulting in inflamed skin, commonly known as sunburn. The warmth you feel from sunburn is a result of the increased blood flow to the affected area. As the sunburn heals, you may notice peeling skin; this is your body's way of shedding damaged cells. Regular application of SPF helps prevent sunburn (and the pain that comes with it) and reduces the risk of long-term skin damage.

You may be familiar with the term Melanin; it’s the pigment that gives colour to your skin, eyes, and hair. When your skin is exposed to sunlight, it triggers the production of melanin. This pigment can actually help to provide some protection to the skin against UV rays; however, it is not enough to skip SPF! Excessive sun exposure can lead to the clumping of melanin, resulting in the appearance of darkened patches or uneven spots, known as hyperpigmentation. Applying SPF daily, even on cloudy days, will help to prevent hyperpigmentation of the skin. However, if you can already see signs on the skin, ingredients like Retinol and Azelaic Acid are an effective way to help achieve a more even complexion. Our Retinol Facial Serum and Squalane SPF 50 Hydrating Daily Sunscreen make the perfect protective and restorative pair.

One of the most crucial reasons to apply SPF is for protection against various forms of skin cancer. Both UVA and UVB rays pose a risk as they can damage the DNA in our skin cells. Although our bodies have mechanisms to repair this damage, frequent exposure to UV radiation can overwhelm these repair processes, leading to an increased risk of genetic mutations. These mutations may result in the growth of abnormal cells, known as cancer. So, the more often you leave your skin unprotected, whether by using an SPF with a low factor or skipping application altogether, the more damage is done and the higher the risk of skin cancer. Therefore, consistent application of SPF helps minimise the likelihood of skin cancer development over time.

Finally, you may not think it, but SPF is the best anti-ageing skincare product you can use. If you’re looking to maintain a youthful complexion, then SPF should be your number one priority, as UV rays can lead to premature ageing, known as photoaging. As UV rays penetrate unprotected skin, they can cause the degradation of collagen and elastin which help to support skin structure. Elastin is also especially important as it gives the skin resilience for a plumper complexion. Photoaged skin often exhibits wrinkles, a rough texture, uneven pigmentation, and a lacklustre appearance. Our Peptide SPF 50 Anti-Ageing Daily Sunscreen is the perfect choice for those looking to prevent future photoaging and improve the appearance of existing fine lines and wrinkles. Infused with collagen-boosting Pre-Peptides and brightening Adzuki Beans, this sunscreen not only offers broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays but also promotes a rejuvenated, youthful and supple complexion.

Something as simple as applying SPF daily could save your skin a lot of future damage. Remember, it’s never too late to start protecting your skin! With our range of SPF 50 Daily Sunscreens, you can be sure your skin is happy, healthy, and protected!

Until next time,

Charlee and Joanna @ Team Q+A