Rain or Shine, You Need A Moisturiser with SPF and Here’s Why
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Think fast – when do you not need to apply a moisturiser with SPF?
Our answer: you need to apply a moisturiser with SPF Every. Single. Day. Yes, even when you’re indoors, and yes, even if you can’t see the Sun outside. In fact, if we had to pick just ONE skincare product you should religiously use, it’ll be a moisturiser with SPF. Let’s find out why!
What are SPF moisturisers?
SPF moisturisers are- as the name suggests- moisturisers that offer sun protection. This two-in-one hybrid simplifies the final steps of your daily skincare routine and makes sun protection a no-brainer. Such an intuitive combination makes it perfect for those who may not have the luxury of time or those who forget this crucial step before dashing out of the house.
Basics of Picking the Right Moisturiser with SPF
Though it may seem obvious, there are several factors to consider before settling on a moisturiser with SPF for your skin.
SPF Amount
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, a measure of how long a sunscreen can protect skin from the sun’s harmful UVB rays (aka the Sun’s burning rays). For example, if it took 15 minutes for your skin to burn without SPF, SPF 30 would protect your skin for 450 minutes (30 multiplied by 15 minutes).
So, does this mean that a higher SPF provides better protection? Not exactly. While SPF 30 blocks 97% of the UVB rays, SPF 100 utilises more chemicals to only block 99%. As long as you’re applying (and reapplying), a face moisturiser with SPF 30 is more than sufficient.
Type of SPF
Did you know that there are 2 types of SPF? Namely, physical and chemical. In summary:
Physical SPF uses Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide and Cerium Oxide to form a shield on the skin that reflects UV rays. Best suited to those with sensitive or oily skin.
Chemical SPF uses Oxybenzone, Avobenzone and Octinoxate to absorb and convert UV rays to heat energy released by the body. Best suited to those with normal or combination skin.
The Type of Moisturiser
Moisturisers, like SPFs, can come in a wide variety. But when picking the right one for you, we recommend finding one based on your skin type (Oily, Dry, Normal or Combination) and current skin condition (Acne, Sensitivity, Ageing etc).
As a general guiding rule, lightweight, oil-free face moisturisers with SPF are better alternatives for oily, acneic and sensitive skin. Heavier, cream type face moisturisers for sensitive skin with SPF would work best for dry, ageing or normal skin.
The Importance of a Face Moisturiser with SPF
Harmful UV rays affect your skin all year round. While UVB rays are responsible for burns, UVA rays are especially harmful as they penetrate into the deeper layers of your skin. Plus, UVA rays can penetrate through windows and clouds, so you will still need a moisturiser with SPF even when you are at home or on rainy days. Need more reasons to get behind face moisturisers with SPF? Here are 3 more reasons why you should be applying a face moisturiser with SPF daily.
It helps prevent premature ageing
Sun damage from UV rays is one of the main causes of premature ageing. UVA rays cause collagen to break down, contributing to a dull complexion, fine lines, sagging and wrinkles. Moisturisers with SPF, therefore, help to prevent such symptoms, maintaining a smoother, younger, and more even skin tone.
It lowers your risk of skin cancer
Need we say more? This reason alone should be enough to make you want to slather SPF across your face and body every day. No matter your skin type or colour, UV radiation from the Sun and other sources can cause dangerous, lasting damage to your skin.
It prevents you from getting sunburnt
Especially in hot and sunny Singapore, the depletion of the ozone layer has increased our risk of sun damage from harmful UVA and UVB rays. Depending on whether they’re physical or chemical, sunscreens either reflect (physical) or block (chemical) these damaging rays, greatly reducing the likelihood of sunburn.
How much do I need to apply?
To get the full extent of protection from your SPF moisturiser, you need at least 2 finger lengths for your face, neck, and décolleté.
While the initial amount matters, re-application of your moisturiser with SPF is equally vital to maintain protection throughout the day. If you’re indoors all day, reapplying every three to four hours would be sufficient. If you’re spending a lot of time outdoors, bring your face moisturiser with SPF out and reapply every one to two hours!
As advocates of healthy skin that lasts, we cannot stress the importance of SPF. No matter how tired or in a rush you may be, never skip the crucial step of applying a face moisturiser with SPF- we promise you your skin will thank you for it many years down the road.
