No, your makeup doesn’t have enough sun protection…even in Winter!

Do I Need Sunscreen During Winter

A lot of people still aren’t wearing sunscreen every day. And I don’t mean the SPF 15 in your tinted moisturiser or BB cream. While a little sunscreen in your foundation is better than nothing, it’s certainly not enough, particularly in the height of Summer.

Australia has a particularly high and severe level of UV radiation compared to Europe during Summer, a 7% increased solar UV intensity to be precise. And as we have clearer atmospheric conditions than Europe, Australians are exposed to 15% more UV. Not only does this result in a higher rate of melanoma, but also accelerated ageing caused by sun damage.

The Cancer Council recommends taking sun precautions when the UV index is over 3, in Australia some states UV index is 3 or over all year round. (You can check the monthly average UV index here: https://wiki.cancer.org.au/skincancerstats/UV_radiation).

Even in Winter, we should wear sunscreen everyday. Basically, if you can see your shadow, you are at risk of UV damage.  There is also some evidence that bright lights in offices (remember when we used to go the office?) can also contribute to overall photoageing.

It does seem over the top to use both sunscreen and an SPF makeup, but the truth is you don’t actually use enough makeup to fully benefit from its sun protection. Both the SPF level in most make-up and the level of skin coverage are not adequate to prevent UV damage. It is recommended that you use a full teaspoon of SPF 50 sunscreen to guarantee that your face and neck is protected as much as possible. And don’t forget your hands!

So, we recommend applying these products under your make-up for maximum protection and prevention of wrinkles:

SkinCeuticals Ultra Facial Defence SPF 50

A true broad-spectrum moisturising sunscreen for normal, combination and dry skin.

La Roche Posay Anthelios XL Ultra Light SPF 50

A light and non-greasy sunscreen. Great for all skin types, especially those who don’t like the feel of sunscreen on their skin or very sensitive skin.

ASAP Moisturising Daily Defence

A daily moisturising sunscreen that protects the skin from harmful and prematurely ageing UVA/UVB rays. Contains Zinc-Oxide for broad spectrum physical protection, Hyaluronic Acid to increase skin hydration and help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, while Niacinamide works to help prevent pigmentation and promote elasticity.

For the hands, neck and chest, you can also use The Skincare Company Dry Touch sunscreen, then dust with your favourite mineral powder.

Dry touch sunscreen

Felicity West, RN.