If you do the multi-step skincare routine, you know that moisturiser is not the final step. During the day, you need to finish with sun cream—preferably with broad-spectrum SPF. It’s a form of sunscreen with a creamy consistency that helps hydrate your skin while protecting it from sun damage. It helps prevent sunburn, premature ageing, and skin cancer, making it a must in your daytime skincare routine.
Apply it even when it’s cloudy
Most people believe sunscreen is only essential when it’s sunny or when you’re swimming or on the beach. But you should actually wear it daily—even on a cloudy day—because the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays still penetrate the clouds. Make sure it is a broad-spectrum sun cream that protects from UVA and UVB rays known to cause sunburns, skin cancer, and skin ageing.
For daily use, choose a sunscreen with at least SPF 30. If you are spending more time outdoors, such as hiking, swimming, or driving, use sunscreen with at least SPF 50 or higher, and don’t forget to reapply when you sweat or after staying in the water. You could also try a water-resistant product, so it stays longer on your skin, even when you’re drenched in sweat or become wet.
More reasons to use it
Exposure to the sun’s UV rays increases your likelihood of developing sunspots, age spots, or liver spots. These are caused by hyperpigmentation and appear as flat discoloured spots in different shades of brown that can appear on your shoulders and face. They may seem harmless, but they can make you look older. Sun cream can help reduce your risk of developing them.
Some sun creams can soothe skin with aloe, so your skin feels relieved on hot days. Look for a lightweight, non-sticky formula that won’t leave a heavy and greasy feeling.
Apply appropriately
An ounce of sunscreen should provide sufficient protection for your face, legs, arms, and neck. For your face and neck, use around half a teaspoon of sun cream.