Sunscreen is an all-year-round skincare essential. This is something we in Australia are highly aware of. But as the warmer months draw closer and we begin to spend more time outdoors, it’s prime time to make sure you have a face sunscreen you love and refresh on how-to correctly apply sunscreen.
when should I apply sunscreen?
Every day, both when you’re inside and outside. As already mentioned, sunscreen isn’t just for the summer months. There are many different types of ultraviolet (UV) rays present in sunlight – those that are most damaging to our skin (and reach earth) are UVB and UVA rays.
Think B (rays) for burning and A (rays for ageing). UVB rays have a short wavelength, and we see higher levels of UVB rays in the hotter months, hence why there are associated with sun burn. On the other hand, UVA rays are present at the same intensity all year round. Being the longest rays in the spectrum, they penetrate to the deeper layers of the skin, causing damage to our collagen and elastin. UVA is the culprit for much of our visible skin ageing in the form of wrinkles, sagging skin, uneven skin tone and sunspots. Not only are these rays present at the same level all year, UVA can penetrate unfiltered glass. So, if your close to a window – don’t forget car windows – then you’re exposing yourself to damage. Your safest bet is to make sunscreen a core part of your daily skincare routine.
Always look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen - this means it’s designed to protect from both UVB and UVA rays. All Dermalogica face sunscreens are broad spectrum, giving your skin the best protection against UV damage – both short term and long term
A daily dose of an SPF 30 - 50+ should be your number one product priority, to not only protect the skin, but prevent against premature skin ageing.
what do the numbers related to my sunscreen mean?
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) numbers indicate how long it will take for UVB rays to cause a sunburn. Higher SPF’s block a slightly higher percentage of the sun’s rays, but no sunscreen blocks 100% of UVB rays. For example, SPF15 blocks 93% of UVB rays, SPF30 blocks 97% and SPF50 blocks 98%.
what is the difference between a physical and chemical sunscreen?
You may have noticed that some sunscreens are labelled as physical (or natural sunscreen) and others as chemical. This refers to the type of sunscreen that is used, and therefore, the way in which the sunscreen protects the skin.
A physical sunscreen sits on the surface of the skin and deflects UV rays, whilst a chemical sunscreen is absorbed into the skin and works by converting UV rays into heat, and then scattering the heat from the skin.
Physical sunscreens are better suited to reactive skins, or anyone undergoing advanced skin treatments such as microneedling and chemical peels. They contain ingredients such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium Oxide.
Chemical sunscreens are thinner in consistency and harder to rub off. They contain ingredients such as Avobenzone, Oxybenzone and Octinoxate.
Some sunscreens combine physical and chemical ingredients to maximise the benefits of both options.
how much sunscreen do I need to apply and how often?
Apply sunscreen 30 minutes prior to exposure, using a teaspoon of sunscreen to cover the face, neck and ears. In terms of topping up, re-apply sunscreen every two hours when exposed for long periods and immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. PRO Tip: Stay out of the midday sun from mid-morning to late afternoon whenever you can.
will sunscreen break me out?
One thing that often prevents regular, daily use of sunscreens is how they can feel on the skin. Thick, gloopy creams that can exacerbate breakouts – no thanks! But not with Dermalogica sunscreens. No longer do we have to be afraid of our SPF. You’ll find each of our sunscreen formulas are wearable, meaning they don’t feel heavy or greasy, and blend seamlessly into the skin. There’s also added antioxidants for maximum protection - research shows that antioxidants are as important as sunscreen when defending the skin from damaging UV rays and free radicals.
Today’s sophisticated formulas and ingredient technology also means we have sunscreens that work with your skin condition. That means you can choose oil-free, mattifying formulas, extra emollient formulas for dry skin, or chemical free formulas for sensitised, reactive skin.
our sunscreen roundup - we protect every skin:
- Invisible Physical Defense SPF30 - reactive and sensitive skin:
Ideal for sensitive skins and those who don’t tolerate chemical sunscreens, this standalone, weightless natural sunscreen contains ultra-sheer Zinc Oxide to protect against UV rays AND blue light emitted from our smart devices. Traditional Zinc Oxide particles are quite large, which is why there is often a white coating left on the skin from using a physical sunscreen. Invisible Physical Defense SPF30 uses small Zinc Oxide particles, so there’s no whitewash. It also contains a soothing Bioactive Mushroom Complex, antioxidant and vitamin rich Matcha Green Tea and hydrating Hyaluronic Acid.
- Prisma Protect SPF30 – all skins seeking more glow:
This light-activated face moisturiser and sunscreen has been designed to supercharge the skin’s daytime defence, whilst boosting skin’s luminosity and hydration. It’s formulated with Intelligent Drone Technology capsules that convert daylight into skin radiance, while Japanese Matcha Tea and Sage fight against pollution induced skin damage.
- Oil Free Matte SPF30 – adult oily skin and breakouts:
An oil-free, light-weight face moisturiser and sunscreen in one, to both protect and provide an all-day matte finish. This ultra-sheer formula contains an advanced blend of oil and breakout fighting Zinc Gluconate, Caffeine, Niacinamide, Biotin and Yeast Extract, plus oil absorbers to mop up excess oil.
- Clear Start Clearing Defense SPF30 – teen shine and breakouts
A lightweight, daytime face moisturiser and sunscreen that provides ideal protection for younger skins. A Patented TT technology blend, derived from Thyme and Terpinol, works with the skin’s microbiome, while natural Tapioca mattifies to keep oily shine at bay.
- Dynamic Skin Recovery SPF50 – premature skin ageing:
This fan favourite, medium weight hydrating face moisturiser and sunscreen is jam packed with firming and preventative ingredients, including antioxidant White Tea and a unique Peptide.
- Powerbright Moisturizer SPF50 - uneven skin tone and dark spots:
A medium weight face moisturiser and sunscreen that prevents against dark spots forming and helps even skin tone. It pairs Niacinamide with Brown Algae to both prevent and combat dark spots, plus Hyaluronic Acid to smooth, plump and hydrate.
- Skin Perfect Primer SPF30 – multi-tasking flawless make-up prep
A velvety protective primer that helps smooth fine lines, improve skin firmness and boost luminosity. Soy Protein helps smooth the skin’s surface, Pearl Powder and natural earth minerals provide a neutral tint for visible radiance and more even skin tone, and a potent Peptide supports skin firmness Apply over your moisturiser to prime for make-up application or go make-up free for a fresh glow.