It’s officially autumn and, personally, my most favourite time of year. Leaves get crispier, nights get shorter and the weather turns colder and cosier. And whilst there are many changes as the season shifts, one thing that shouldn’t change is your skincare routine in autumn. Let’s explore why you still need to wear SPF in autumn.
Autumn Skincare Routine
As autumn comes, you know before the weather’s even shifted; your skin gets drier, your lips begin to crack and your daily moisturiser just isn’t hitting the same. And because of this, it’s tempting to think you can swap out your daily SPF for heavier creams and richer moisturisers but plot twist, you can’t.
Yes, your skin may require a little more moisture than usual, but that doesn’t mean you should completely cut out your sun protection. The sunshine feels weaker, there’s little to no warmth this time of year and yes, the skies are* cloudier, but the truth is - SPF shouldn’t just be part of your summer vanity. Although you may be spending more time indoors, SPF is not just an essential when it’s 30 degrees - It’s a year-round skincare staple that protects your skin every single day, even when you can’t see the sun. And when it comes to protection, nothing is more important than SPF and thankfully - you’ve come to the right place.
Here’s why you need to still be using sun protection even in the ooky spooky months:
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UV Rays Don’t Disappear in Autumn
One of the most common skincare misconceptions is that UV rays only exist in summer (or on your annual holiday to Dubai). However, in reality, UVA rays are still there all year round. Whilst you can’t see them or the sun itself for that matter, UV rays can penetrate through clouds, glass, and even the top layers of your skin without you even realising it.
While UVB rays (the ones that cause burning) are strongest in the warmer summer months, UVA rays are constant - 365 days a year, whether you’re wearing your shorts or your fur coat These rays are the ones responsible for long-term skin damage; they break down collagen, accelerate premature ageing, and contribute to pigmentation and uneven tone. Studies show that up to 80% of UV radiation can pass through clouds, which means your skin is still being exposed even on the dullest (and spookiest) autumn days.
Regardless if you’re simply walking to work, picking pumpkins or driving with sunlight spilling through the glass, your skin is still at risk of UV damage. Wearing SPF every day however ensures that your skin barrier stays protected against this invisible but consistent threat.
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Cold Weather Can Weaken Your Skin Barrier
Crisp and chilly winds and cranking your central heating up can strip your skin of its natural moisture, leaving it more vulnerable to irritation and other environmental stressors. Using SPF daily not only shields your skin from UV damage but also helps to reinforce the skin barrier, locking in hydration and maintaining its resilience throughout the colder months. Especially our tallow-based SPF which helps nourish, replenish and hydrate.
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Autumn’s Challenges
We get it, Autumn is cold - but it does also bring about its own set of skin challenges. The colder weather, lower humidity, and use of indoor heating can all lead to dryness and irritation. As your skin barrier becomes more vulnerable, the protection that SPF provides becomes even more important.
Do I Have To Wear SPF Everyday?
Guys, I get it. An extra addition to what feels like a never-ending skincare routine can feel frustrating. However, think of SPF as your daily armour. It’s just as, if not more important than your moisturisers and fancy serums. It’s one of the simplest and most effective ways to future-proof your skin and maintain a healthy complexion. Daily SPFuse helps to prevent:
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Premature ageing: including fine lines, wrinkles and loss of elasticity
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Hyperpigmentation: dark spots and uneven tone caused by repeated sun exposure
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Barrier damage: weakened skin that struggles to retain moisture and fend off pollutants
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Sensitivity and redness: often caused by overexposure to UV light
Even if you already use products packed with antioxidants or hydrating ingredients, none of them can do their job properly if your skin is constantly exposed to UV stress. SPF helps to lock in the benefits of your skincare routine by protecting your skin from the external aggressors that undo all your hard work, and ultimately the money you’re spending.
How to Use SPF Effectively in Autumn
I know I keep banging on about it, but even though it feels cooler outside, your SPF should still live inside your skincare bag. As you are with the rest of your skincare routine, it's important to stay consistent with wearing sun protection and SPF 15 is my go-to.
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Apply it every morning: SPF should be the final step in your skincare routine, before makeup.
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Choose at least SPF 15 For Daily Use: My personal favourite, but SPF 15 provides adequate daily protection for most skin types especially just for autumn/winter skincare.
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Don’t forget exposed areas: Your neck, ears, chest and hands are often overlooked but just as exposed to UV rays.
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Reapply if you’re outdoors for long periods: Especially if you’re using exfoliating ingredients like AHAs or retinol in your evening routine.
Building SPF into your everyday routine doesn’t need to feel like a chore. My personal favourite daily SPF to use is the OhSo Bare Peppermint & Cacao Sunrays, it’s gorgeous and not too thick or not too thin - just the perfect consistency. It layers perfectly under makeup and the best part about it - well it’s natural, non-toxic and organic.
The Long-Term Benefits of Consistent SPF Use
Wearing SPF every day doesn’t just prevent damage, it actively helps your skin look better over time. Consistent protection can lead to a more even skin tone, smoother texture, and reduced appearance of dark spots. It can also enhance the effectiveness of your other skincare products, since your skin isn’t constantly working to repair UV damage.
Perhaps most importantly, daily SPF use reduces your risk of skin cancer. According to dermatological research, around 90% of non-melanoma skin cancers are associated with UV exposure, a risk that can be significantly reduced through consistent protection.
By making SPF a non-negotiable part of your routine, you’re investing in your skin’s future health as much as its present appearance.
Our Ethos
At OhSo Bare we believe that radiant skin starts with protection. Our approach to skincare is simple: clean, non-toxic, and effective formulas that support your skin naturally. As we move into the colder months, continue to prioritise your SPF alongside your nourishing cleansers, oils, and moisturisers, because healthy skin is protected skin. Shop our full range here.
