Saving your skin with SPF is a formula as easy as ABC

Writer: Helen Wallace | Images: Supplied + Getty

In 2020, someone dared to comment on the @fentybeauty Instagram page to question why they were promoting SPF in winter. Not many people have the honour of a direct response, but this user got a clapback from the founder herself, who famously said; “You gon have wrinkles if you think SPF is seasonal! But continue.”

Ouch.

It was the burn felt around the world. And one that could have been prevented had said user known how sunscreen actually works. Rihanna was merely pointing out what dermatologists have been saying all along: SPF is important, and your best defence against the negative side effects of prolonged sun exposure.

Many people think that wearing SPF is something you do before a day out at the beach and that its use is reserved for specific outdoor occasions. This, however, will do little to preserve your skin, especially living under the hot African sun.

Instead, we should be wearing sunscreen not just every day, but also reapplying it every few hours. They are only effective for short periods of time and need regular touching up for optimal skin shielding.

But why is this skincare product so important?

Because it has the power to protect and improve your skin with daily use. UV rays are one of the main culprits behind early signs of ageing, such as fine lines and hyperpigmentation. Exposure can also lead to skin cancer, of which there are around 20 000 cases reported in South Africa each year. By applying SPF correctly, you and your skin stand a better chance at long-term health and happiness.

One of the main things that have prevented people from embracing SPF is its tendency to leave a white cast. This has posed an even greater problem to people with darker skin tones.

But times have changed and there are now formulas that fit any and all complexions. And they come in two main categories: Physical and Chemical.

• Physical – or mineral – sunscreen is what you used as a kid, but modern formulae are far superior. These add a protective layer on top of your skin that reflects UV rays. Their main actives are titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, making them more prone to leaving a white cast or making skin look ashy.
• Chemical sunscreen contains filters that absorb UV rays and convert them into heat to be released by the body. These formulae – popular in K-Beauty circles – are fast-absorbing with a lotion-like texture, but take a few minutes after application to start working their sun-protection magic.

There are formulae that contain both chemical and physical filters so that you get the best of both worlds. Whichever you choose, it’s crucial that you reapply every few hours to keep your skin safe.

There are formulae that contain both chemical and physical filters so that you get the best of both worlds. Whichever you choose, it’s crucial that you reapply every few hours to keep your skin safe.

Let’s be honest; If you spend ages on a full face of makeup every morning, reapplying sunscreen regularly is not an option.

Or is it?

These days, SPF comes in all sorts of different products, ranging from supplements (yes, really) to hair sprays and even makeup. While the SPF in your foundation is not a suitable replacement for the real deal, powders that contain UV-blocking filters are great for on-the-go touch-ups. There are also spray formulas that allow you to top up your protection without ruining your look. Talk about options!

What’s not optional, however, is that we all embrace sunscreen as part of your daily (and every few-hourly) routine. This will ensure that your skin stays healthier, even-toned, and youthful for longer.

So here's to another season of cast-free, sun damage-free skin.