SPF girlies, you’re going to want to unite for this. Since suncream and SPF are one of the most important steps in your skincare routine, it’s important that you know why and how it plays such a crucial part in helping you achieve gorgeous glowing skin. Aside from helping to protect your skin from harmful UV rays that can lead to premature ageing, sunburn, and even skin cancer - there’s also the ‘how’ behind wearing suncream, Like, how often should you reapply it to ensure you're fully protected? Let’s dive into it.
Why You Should Be Wearing SPF
But firstly, why is it even important to wear SPF/suncream at all? Especially when you’re unfortunate enough as me to be living in the dark, damp and rainy UK where it feels like the sun barely makes an appearance.
However, the truth is that the sun’s harsh UV radiation is always around us - even on the UK’s cloudy or overcast days, and let’s face it, we have many of them. Research shows that up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds, meaning your skin is still being exposed to damage even when the sun isn’t shining. And, whilst we - or I can - cry about it, the UK might not have tropical temperatures, UV exposure is still present. This means that daily, unprotected exposure adds up over time, leading to premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and an increased risk of skin cancer.
Even indoors, UVA rays can pass through windows, impacting your skin while you’re sitting near a window at work or driving. That’s why SPF isn’t just for beach days; it’s a daily essential, just like brushing your teeth (i mean, i hope this is one of your daily essentials?). So how often should you apply your suncream?
The General Rule: Every Two Hours
Most dermatologists and skincare experts recommend reapplying your suncream every two hours when you're exposed to the sun, like when you’re on holiday. This is because suncream can naturally wear off due to sweat, water exposure, and general absorption into the skin which is completely normal.
After Swimming or Profusely Sweating
If you're swimming or sweating, you should reapply immediately after drying off, even if you're using a water-resistant formula. Despite some mainstream suncream displaying labels like ‘water resistant’, no suncream is 100% waterproof, and suncream protection will diminish when exposed to water.
After Towel-Drying
Wiping your skin with a towel can remove the suncream you’ve already applied so be sure to reapply once you’ve dried off after swimming or sweating, or doing other activities on your Mykonos holiday.
If You're Wearing Makeup
If you wear makeup, reapplying suncream can sometimes feel like a task in itself, but there are solutions. Consider using a SPF setting spray or powder suncream or a quick and effective top-up without disturbing your makeup. Although we haven't expanded our product line into makeup - yet anyway- be sure to still explore your non-toxic options.
Indoors or in the Shade
Even if you're spending most of your time indoors or in the shade - which let’s be real, you shouldn’t if you’re on holiday - it's still recommended to apply suncream in the morning and reapply at least once more during the day. UV rays can penetrate windows, and indirect exposure still contributes to skin damage over time surprisingly.
Choosing the Right SPF For You
For daily wear, dermatologists recommend using at least SPF 30, but if you're spending prolonged time outdoors, SPF 50 or higher offers better protection. However, in our blog ‘Is SPF 30 Too High To Tan’ , we reveal that applying SPF 30 protects you from approximately 97% of UV rays, while SPF 50 protects you from 98%.
The Takeaway
Suncream is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing long-term damage like premature ageing. Reapplying every two hours, or more frequently when swimming or sweating, ensures that your skin remains protected throughout the day.
If you’re still searching for a non-toxic, organic sunscreen that nourishes your skin while keeping it safe, make sure to check out our OhSo Bare SPF collection for natural, skin-loving sun protection.
Shop here.
