Of all the skincare habits in the world, none are more important than facial sunscreen. Not only is it necessary to prevent against skin cancer, it can also help keep your complexion healthy and youthful for as long as possible.
But we get that some of you have had less-than-ideal experiences in the past – sunscreen can cause irritation, ghosting (that white residue left on your skin), and many have a thick or greasy finish.
Which is exactly why we’ve poured a lot of time, effort and science into two very different but equally excellent facial sunscreen formulas: Age Defence SPF 50+ and Face The Day SPF 50+.
Read on for a breakdown on both best-selling formulas, SPF best practice, and five very important reasons why sun safety should form the basis of your skincare routine.
Skinstitut And Sunscreen: A Love Story
It’s no secret we believe in daily sun protection, but the reasons why are varied. In fact, from UV protection and preventing the overproduction of melanocytes, to slowing the process of premature ageing, sunscreen can be a multitasking skincare hero.
To Protect Against The Formation Of Skin Cancer
There’s a direct link between unprotected sun exposure and the incidence of skin cancer. This is because UV rays cause cellular DNA damage that can result in basal cell carcinomas and melanoma. To prevent this, your best bet is to keep on top of your skin checks, cover up, and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
To Safeguard From Sunburn
Red, peeling skin and tan lines aren’t cute, period. Exposure to UVB (i.e the ‘burning’ rays) triggers redness and inflammation, commonly referred to as sunburn. Not only is it painful, but it is also a huge risk factor when it comes to skin cancer and general damage. It’s a strong ‘no’ from us.
To Defend Against Discolouration
Heat and UV rays can trigger the production of melanocytes, which are the pigment-producing cells that give our skin its colour (this is the process behind tanning). But excessive exposure triggers the over-production of melanocytes, resulting in dark splodges, pigmentation and pesky sunspots. Once you’ve developed discolouration in the skin, it’s difficult to eradicate, and so the best option is (you guessed it) daily sunscreen application.
To Prevent Deep Lines And Wrinkles
UV rays also contribute to the premature breakdown of collagen and elastin, which is the support system that gives our skin its bounce. What’s at stake? Pronounced lines, deep wrinkles and the loss of facial volume. Yet another reason to load up on SPF.
To Enhance The Effects Of Your Skincare Routine
Even if you regularly use clinically proven ingredients like Retinol, Vitamin C and Alpha-Hydroxy Acids, your efforts will be wasted if you aren’t applying sunscreen every. Single. Day. Not only will you be subjected to all the damage listed above, but some of these ingredients can cause photosensitivity, making your skin more vulnerable in the sun. The takeaway? SPF will always be the MVP in your skincare routine.
Find The Right Sunscreen For Your Face:
Now, onto the practical stuff. We have two facial sunscreens in our line-up: Age Defence SPF 50+ and Face The Day SPF 50+. While both formulas offer 50+ protection, they are designed with different skin types in mind. Read on to find out which one is best for you.
Protection: Broad-spectrum coverage and a sun protection factor of 50+.
Feels like: A light, instantly absorbed lotion with a comfortable matte finish.
Best for: Normal, oily and blemish-prone skin types. It’s also a great pick if you’re looking for a sunscreen for sensitive skin.
Filters: Face The Day is a chemical sunscreen that uses Tinosorb S and Tinosorb M. These modern sun filters are highly stable and non-sensitising, and work by both scattering and absorbing UV rays.
Hero ingredients: We’ve included humectants Hexanediol and Butylene Glycol to hold water within the skin, and Tapioca Starch to prevent shine.
Protection: Broad-spectrum coverage and a sun protection factor of 50+.
Feels like: A rich, comforting cream that melts into the skin, imparting a dewy finish.
Best for: Dry, normal or mature skin types.
Filters: Age Defence SPF 50+ is both a chemical and physical sunscreen that also uses Tinosorb S and Tinosorb M.
Hero ingredients: Vitamin B3 (also known as Niacinamide) for barrier integrity and to promote bright, even tone.
SPF Best Practice
When it comes to your facial sunscreen, how and when you apply it matters.
These are some rules worth following:
- Your sunscreen should always come as the final step in your morning skincare routine, which means it should be applied on top of moisturiser and underneath your makeup.
- You need approximately two finger-lengths worth of product for adequate protection.
- Don’t forget your ears and neck!
- It’s important to reapply when you’re swimming, sweating, exercising or outdoors. If you’re applying over makeup, try gently pressing onto the skin with either your fingers, or a dry makeup sponge.
Love learning about SPF? Head over to our deep dive into all things Face The Day SPF 50+.
Skinstitut Age Defence SPF 50+ Very High Protection Cream and Face The Day SPF 50+ Very High Protection Lotion: ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun. Wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun.