Debunking SPF Myths

When it comes to SPF there is a lot of misinformation floating around that can end up doing considerable damage to your skin! From "I don't need SPF on cloudy days" to "Higher SPF means I can stay in the sun longer," these myths are doing your skin zero favours. Don't worry though, we’re here to give you the facts that'll keep your skin protected and damage free year round.

MYTH 1: "I DON'T NEED SPF ON CLOUDY DAYS"

Here's the thing - Although you can't feel the sun shining down on you, clouds are pretty useless at blocking UV rays. UVA rays (the sneaky ones that cause premature ageing) are particularly good at this cloud-penetrating trick. Whether it's bright and sunny or grey and gloomy, those rays are still coming for your skin. The solution? Make SPF your daily non-negotiable, so your skin gets the protection it deserves!

MYTH 2: "HIGHER SPF MEANS I CAN STAY IN THE SUN LONGER"

SPF numbers aren't telling you how much extra time you have in the sun, they're telling you how much protection you're getting! While SPF50 does block a slightly higher percentage of UV rays than SPF30, this doesn’t mean you can lay out for longer. No matter what level SPF you've got on, reapplication every two hours is your golden rule for keeping your skin happy and protected.

MYTH 3: " DARKER SKIN DOESN'T NEED SPF"

While melanin does provide some natural protection (like having a built-in SPF of about 4), it's nowhere near enough to shield against UV damage. Everyone, regardless of skin tone, can experience sun damage, premature ageing, and yes - skin cancer too. The truth is, harmful UV rays don't discriminate, and neither should your sun protection routine. Every skin tone deserves and needs that SPF love!

MYTH 4: “SUNCREAM IS ENOUGH PROTECTION BY ITSELF” 

Sunscreen is an absolute essential in your routine, but it’s not the only way you should be protecting your skin! Even the best broad-spectrum SPF can't block 100% of UV rays, which is where your backup defence comes in. Seeking shade during peak hours (10am-4pm), wearing a wide-brimmed hat, and throwing on UV-protective clothing all work together as your skin's dream team. Sunscreen plus these extras equals protection that'll keep your skin happy in the long-term!

MYTH 5: "WATERPROOF SUNSCREEN MEANS I DON'T NEED TO REAPPLY"

So what does “waterproof” actually mean? Think of it like "waterproof" mascara - it's more resistant than regular formulas, but it's not invincible! Even water-resistant SPF will start to wear off after swimming, sweating, or towelling off. The golden rule remains the same: reapply every two hours, and immediately after taking a dip or working up a sweat. Your skin barrier needs that consistent protection to stay strong against UV damage.

KEEP IT SIMPLE, KEEP IT CONSISTENT

The bottom line is, you need to stay consistent with your protection! Make sure you find an SPF that works for your skin, so you're happy to apply it every morning and reapply throughout the day. To get an extra boost of protection add our 5 in 1 Anti-Redness Day Cream SPF50 to your routine, on top of your everyday SPF. Don't let myths sabotage your skin's health! Use these new facts to give your skin the protection it deserves, keeping it happy, healthy and glowing for years to come.