Do I Really Need Sunscreen Every Day?

The question of daily sunscreen use is one we hear often. Is it truly necessary to apply it every single day, even when it is cloudy or you are mostly indoors? The short answer is a resounding yes. Protecting your skin from the sun is the single most effective thing you can do to keep it looking healthy, youthful, and vibrant for years to come.

This guide will walk you through why daily sun protection is crucial. We will cover how much to use, what type is best for your skin, and the right time to apply it. We will also share why at Nakin we believe in a dedicated approach to sun care, which is why you will not find SPF in our moisturisers.

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Why Daily Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable

Sun exposure is the primary cause of premature ageing. The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which comes in two main forms that reach our skin: UVA and UVB.

• UVB Rays: These are the rays that cause sunburn. They have a shorter wavelength and are the main culprit behind immediate skin damage like redness and blistering.
• UVA Rays: These have a longer wavelength and penetrate deeper into the skin. They are responsible for long-term damage, such as wrinkles, fine lines, and loss of elasticity. UVA rays can pass through clouds and even glass, meaning your skin is exposed even on overcast days or when you are sitting by a window.

Consistent exposure to both types of rays contributes to photoageing and increases the risk of developing skin cancer. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day provides a vital shield against this cumulative damage, preserving your skin’s health and youthful appearance.

How to Choose the Right Sunscreen

Navigating the sunscreen aisle can be confusing. With so many formulas and numbers, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Let's break down the key factors to consider.

Broad-Spectrum Protection

Always choose a sunscreen labelled "broad-spectrum." This ensures it protects you from both UVA and UVB rays. Without this, you might be preventing sunburn but still leaving your skin vulnerable to the deeper, ageing effects of UVA radiation.

Understanding SPF

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It primarily measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays—the ones that cause sunburn. An SPF of 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, while an SPF of 50 blocks about 98%. While higher numbers offer marginally more protection, no sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays. For most people, an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended for daily use.

Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreens

Sunscreens work in one of two ways, and the best choice often comes down to personal preference and skin sensitivity.

• Mineral (Physical) Sunscreens: These contain active mineral ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. They work by sitting on top of the skin and physically blocking or scattering UV rays. Mineral sunscreens are often preferred for sensitive skin as they are less likely to cause irritation.
• Chemical Sunscreens: These use active ingredients that absorb UV radiation, convert it into heat, and then release it from the skin. They tend to be lighter in texture and rub into the skin without leaving a white cast.

The Art of Application: How Much and When

Using the right amount of sunscreen is just as important as choosing the right product. Most people apply far too little, significantly reducing the level of protection they receive.

How Much to Apply

For your face and neck, a general guideline is to use about half a teaspoon of sunscreen. Another popular method is the "two-finger rule": squeeze a line of sunscreen onto your index and middle fingers from base to tip. This amount should be enough to cover your face, neck, and ears thoroughly. Remember to extend the application to your chest if it is exposed.

When to Apply

Sunscreen should be the final step in your morning skincare routine, applied after your moisturiser but before any makeup. Allow it to absorb for a few minutes before applying foundation or other products.

You should apply sunscreen at least 15-20 minutes before you go outside to give it enough time to form a protective layer on your skin. If you are spending an extended period outdoors, sweating, or swimming, it is essential to reapply your sunscreen at least every two hours.

Why Nakin Moisturisers Are SPF-Free

At Nakin, our philosophy is rooted in creating the best possible natural anti-ageing skincare. We formulate our products with high-performance plant-based ingredients to nourish, repair, and protect the skin. While sun protection is a critical part of any skincare regimen, we have made a conscious decision not to include SPF in our moisturisers.

We believe that skincare products and sunscreens have different jobs, and they perform best when applied separately. Here is why:

1. Effective Formulation: Moisturisers are designed to hydrate and deliver active ingredients deep into the skin. Sunscreen, especially the mineral kind, is formulated to sit on the skin's surface to form a protective barrier. Combining these can compromise the effectiveness of both products. Active ingredients in a moisturiser may not penetrate as well, and the SPF could be diluted.
2. Proper Application: People often do not apply enough moisturiser to achieve the SPF rating stated on the bottle. To get the full protection of an SPF 30 moisturiser, you would need to apply a thick layer—often more than you would for hydration alone. This can feel heavy and greasy. By keeping them separate, you can apply a generous layer of moisturiser for skin health and then the correct amount of sunscreen for full protection.
3. The Need for Reapplication: Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours during sun exposure. It is impractical and often undesirable to reapply a rich moisturiser throughout the day, especially over makeup. A dedicated sunscreen product is much easier to top up when you are on the go, ensuring you remain protected.

We recommend applying one of our beautiful natural moisturisers, like our Active Dew Face Cream or Matt Formula Face Cream, to deeply hydrate and nourish your skin. Let it absorb fully, and then follow with a separate, high-quality, broad-spectrum sunscreen before you head outside. This two-step approach ensures your skin gets the best of both worlds: potent anti-ageing care and effective sun protection.

A Daily Habit for Lifelong Skin Health

Making sunscreen a non-negotiable part of your daily routine is an investment in your skin's future. It protects against premature ageing, helps maintain an even skin tone, and crucially, reduces your risk of skin cancer.

By understanding what to look for, how much to use, and when to apply it, you empower yourself to take the best possible care of your skin. Pair a dedicated sunscreen with a high-performance skincare routine, and you will have a winning combination for a healthy, radiant complexion at any age.

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