6 Easy Ways to Incorporate Sun Protection into your Daily Skincare Routine

You may have heard the hype around sun protection factor (SPF). But the question remains: ‘Should I add sunscreen to my skincare routine?’ The answer is a resounding yes, and here’s why.

Sunscreen is anti-ageing in a bottle because it defends skin against radical damage caused by UVA and UVB rays. These rays break down collagen, creating creases, dryness and sagging skin. Sunscreen shields you from sun damage, protecting collagen for a plump and youthful-looking complexion.

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV) puts you at risk of skin cancer. Sunscreen blocks these rays and lowers the risk of cancerous cells. However, it’s vital to remember not to rely solely on SPF for skin protection. Wear a hat, stay in the shade and avoid going in the sun during the hottest time of the day (between 11 am and 3 pm).

Sunspots are flat, brown patches that occur due to sun exposure. They’re a form of hyperpigmentation and create an uneven skin tone. Wearing sunscreen daily stops the sun from damaging the deeper layers of tissue that develop sunspots.

Remembering to use sunscreen can be tricky, but it’s essential for a healthy-looking complexion. So, we’ve collated some great ways to easily add sun protection into your skincare routine.

An ELEMIS moisturiser with SPF is a simple way to defend your skin against the sun. It doesn’t involve any extra steps and protects your complexion while combining skin-enhancing ingredients. Our Pro-Collagen Marine Cream SPF 30 uses macroalgae found in the Mediterranean to provide 24-hour rapid hydration* — which is particularly important during summer. The fresh-water algae chlorella contains amino acids to boost skin elasticity and firmness. All the while, broad-spectrum SPF safeguards your complexion from sunlight. 

Optimise your SPF protection with the ELEMIS summer skincare guide for in-depth advice on caring for your skin as the weather warms.

*Independent Clinical Trials 2021. Results based on 37 people over 4 weeks.

If you struggle with uneven skin, we recommend the Dynamic Resurfacing Day Cream SPF 30. Our patented Tri-Enzyme Technology supports the skin's natural cell renewal cycle and uses raspberry seed oil to promote a soft complexion. Regenerated skin is sensitive to sunlight, so we’ve formulated this cream with a broad-spectrum SPF.

After cleansing your face in the morning, warm a small amount of SPF moisturiser between your fingertips. It is advised that for the face alone, you need to apply a quarter teaspoon or one finger length of sunscreen (this equates to 2mg per cm2). For the face and neck, it’s advisable to apply about half a teaspoon or two finger lengths, ensuring an even layer all over the face.

Gently smooth across your face, neck, and décolleté area with upward strokes. Allow your skin to absorb before applying sunscreen or make-up.

Layering products containing SPF builds up protection. Our Pro-Collagen Skin Protection Fluid SPF 50 has a lightweight formula that effortlessly glides across the skin without leaving an oily residue. The satin-like texture absorbs with zero white cast, making it perfect for going under or over makeup.

Generously smooth the featherlight fluid into your face and neck after your moisturiser. You can then use SPF makeup. We recommend applying it 30 minutes before venturing outside, reapplying every two hours if you are consistently in the sun.

Many liquid and powder foundations contain SPF so if you wear makeup every day, this makes caring for your skin incredibly easy. Look for products formulated with SPF and use them as another protective layer to maintain your skin’s natural elasticity and luminosity. Remember, however, that SPF makeup is not enough to protect your complexion. It’s important to pair your SPF makeup with a traditional SPF sunscreen.

Using SPF-infused formulas is a fantastic starting place. But adding sunscreen every two hours is crucial for maximum protection. You should also reapply your sun lotion after swimming or working out, as sweat and water can wash it away.

Our SPF 30 Daily Defence Shield absorbs into the skin for weightless protection from UVA and UVB rays that cause skin damage. Unlike other sunscreens, we don’t want you to sacrifice sun protection for dull and dry skin. That’s why this unique formula has a subtle blend of jojoba and coconut oil for a luminous complexion.

Smooth on your sunscreen after your moisturiser and makeup. Apply a small amount, ensuring you cover every area to defend your skin from sunlight. As mentioned above, apply around a quarter teaspoon of sunscreen to your face or half a teaspoon for your face and neck. You can also reapply throughout the day.

Your lips have fragile skin, which is what gives them their lovely colour. However, this also means they are delicate and can develop premature wrinkles and creases. SPF lip balms add a finishing touch to your sun protection routine.

You may have noticed that we formulate our suncare products with different levels of SPF. But which one is best for you? The level you choose depends on your skin type and the time of year. Below, we’ve compiled a quick guide to selecting the correct SPF.

Cloudy days: Cloud cover reduces the intensity of sunlight, but harmful rays still filter through. Even if the damage isn’t immediately visible, it breaks down collagen and can cause premature signs of ageing. During dull days, look after your skin and use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for protection.

Sensitive skin: We recommend products containing SPF 50 for anyone with sensitive skin. Higher protection also works well with a lighter complexion, as light skin tones have lower melanin levels.

Darker Skin Tones: For skin with higher melanin levels, SPF 30 will provide mid-level protection to shield the skin, so we recommend this level or even better, higher.

Read how to choose and apply the best SPF skincare products for extra tips and tricks and optimise sun protection.

If you’re seeking new sunscreen protection, try out Pro-Collagen Skin Protection Fluid. The SPF50 face cream uses CapSol, based on the Safflower Oleosomes, combined with nectaria lithops to support the skin's own production of vitamin D for natural luminosity. But we didn’t stop there. We’ve included the algae Padina Pavonica to help maintain skin hydration.

Protect your complexion with luminous moisturisers, smoothing primers, and hydrating sunscreens. Enjoy luscious skincare and defend against UVA and UVB rays with ELEMIS.