If I could offer you only one tip for the future, sunscreen would be it

Thank you Baz Luhrmann and the class of ‘99.

Daily SPF is a non-negotiable, to prevent both premature aging as a result of UV radiation, but also to prevent skin cancers.

It’s one of the first questions we’ll ask you about your skincare routine; ‘are you wearing daily SPF?’ Because if you aren’t, frankly- you’re not going to get your money’s worth with any in clinic treatments.

Often, we’ll hear an enthusiastic ‘Yes! My makeup contains SPF20’… For anyone that needs to hear this… the SPF in your makeup is not enough.

Adequate coverage is approximately 2 milligrams per square cm of skin. This looks like a 10p piece for the average face & neck, or two full finger lengths.

So, when it comes to makeup- unless you’re really caking it on, you won’t be applying anywhere near enough.

There are a couple of things to keep in mind when choosing your SPF: your skin type, and your budget.

When it comes to choosing for your skin type, the kind of filter you use can occasionally make a difference- for example in very sensitive skin, and rosacea.

Mineral Sunscreen:

Mineral sunscreens, also known as physical sunscreens, typically contain active ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These minerals work by forming a protective barrier on the skin's surface that reflects and scatters UV rays, preventing them from penetrating into the deeper layers of the skin. Most mineral sunscreens will also have a chemical component in them too- this makes them easier to formulate and much more affordable.

Mineral sunscreens are sometimes touted as an option that are less likely to cause irritation, making them suitable for sensitive and sensitised skin. In reality, most sunscreens are now formulated with sensitive skin in mind- so the decision to go for mineral vs chemical filters is broadly a personal choice.

One potential drawback of mineral sunscreens can sometimes leave a white cast on the skin due to the reflective nature of their ingredients.

They may also feel thicker compared to chemical sunscreens- and when it comes to important events- these are the ones to avoid to prevent a very white flashback on photographs.

Chemical Sunscreen:

Chemical sunscreens contain organic compounds such as avobenzone, octinoxate, or (increasingly rarely) oxybenzone, which absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin.

Unlike mineral sunscreens, chemical sunscreens tend to be more lightweight and can be fomulated in different ways to blend seamlessly into the skin, making them easier to wear under makeup or skincare products. They are more easily formulated into products targetting specific skin concerns, and they also provide broader protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

One of the main criticisms of chemical sunscreens is their potential to cause irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. Certain ingredients, such as oxybenzone, have raised concerns about their impact on marine ecosystems, particularly coral reefs. For this reason, many brands now offer oxybenzone-free formulations to address these environmental concerns.

Regardless of whether you choose a mineral or chemical sunscreen, the most important thing is to find one that suits your skin, & you’ll love to use every day. And that’s also where your budget comes in.

A couple of my favourite brands include:

The ultimate budget option: La Roche-Posay Anthelios, Invisible Fluid 50+

The budget friendly option- Anthelios 50+ is an ultralight fluid containing chemical filters.

I’ve used this one for years when I’ve been at high altitude (skiing and hiking), because I find its flat bottle shape fits really easily into pockets/bum bags.

RRP ~£20 for 50mL

The mid-range: Heliocare (available to purchase in our London Clinic)

I love the Heliocare range of SPFs, & this brand is my go-to every day option.

There’s something for everyone- mineral options, tinted options, oil free, targeted anti-pigmentation and anti-redness options, and hydrating options. They do an SPF stick for on the go, an SPF50 bosy spray… there’s also an SPF100 specifically for people with actinic keratosis.

RRP ~£32 - £34 for 50mL

The SPF as skincare: Clinicare

Two beautiful options we both love & are available to purchase through both London and Cheltenham Clinis:

Dermo-corrective SPF 50

On in-office days or when I’m going out and feel like I need a little extra coverage, I’ll use this dermo-corrective SPF as a base/foundation.

Available in two shades (Medium and Dark) this has a fairly heavy tint so is perfect for events/when you need more of an even skin look- but reapplying this is more of a struggle, which is why I usually leave this to when I’m inside most of the day.

RRP £44 for 30mL

Sun Sheild SPF30

This is another beautiful option suitable for even sensitive skin. It’s non tinted, incredibly moisturising and still has broad spectrum SPF30.

RRP £25 for 50mL

Remember that SPF needs a uniform layer to work- so throughout the day as we talk, eat, sweat- the layer starts to slide away, so reapplication is needed- especially if you’re outside all day.

Book yourself in for a consultation, or chat to us about it next time you’re in for a treatment