SPF 101: Everything you need to know

wearing Cliniccare Dermo Corrective Cream SPF50

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and is how we measure the protection from the sun's UV rays.

SPF15 blocks 93% of UV rays, SPF30 blocks 97%of UV rays and SPF50 blocks 98% of UV rays.

A minimum of SPF30 is recommended for daily application and should be applied as the last step in your morning skincare routine.

There are two types of sunscreen- physical (also known as 'mineral') and chemical.

Physical SPF: zinc oxidide and titanium dioxide

Chemical SPF: oxybenzone, octinoxate, avobenzone, homosalate

Neither is better than the other- just choose one you like and wear it EVERY. DAY.

Up to 80% of the sun's UV rays can pass through clouds meaning SPF is essential in all seasons to protect your skin from UV damage.

UV damage causes premature ageing such as fine lines and wrinkles, leathery skin, solar keratosis, hyperpigmentation and skin cancer.

My own personal favourite SPF, a huge hit with my clients and the bestselling product on my website is Cliniccare Dermo Corrective Cream SPF50.

Cliniccare Dermo Corrective Cream SPF50

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It's self- adjusting pigments adapt to you skin tone (I don't know how this wizardry works but it does!), it provides a lightweight coverage that can be worn alone for a healthy 'no makeup' glow or as an excellent primer under makeup. It's packed with a powerhouse of ingredients to repair and protect the skin:

Vitamin C: antioxidant, brightens, reduces dark spots

Niacinamide: regulates oil, protects skin barrier, reduces appearance of pores

Hyaluronic Acid: hydrates, plumps fine lines, accelerates would healing

Caffeine: decreases puffiness, increases blood flow

Panthenol: skin protectant, relieves dry and irritated skin, reduces redness

Zinc: anti- inflammatory, accelerates wound healing, reduces acne, rosacea and eczema

Peptides: promote collagen production, anti- ageing, firming

It's not like traditional SPFs you've tried in the past- it has no weird smell, it doesn't sting your eyes, it's not heavy or chalky, it doesn't leave a white cast or flashback in photos, it's suitable for all skin- including acneic and sensitive and all ages.

SKIN CANCER FACTS

• Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK

• At least 100,000 new cases are diagnosed each year in the UK alone

• Skin cancer kills over 2,500 people each year in the UK- that's 7 per day

• 35% of people in the UK got burnt at least once last year

• UV exposure is the main preventable cause of skin cancer

SOURCE: britihskinfoundation.org.uk

So, now you know the facts it's time to go SPF shopping- your skin will thank you!

Melanie x