The Importance of Wearing a Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

June 27, 2023

And Why Moisturizers with SPF Fall Short

It's Top-Tip Tuesday! Today, we're diving into the importance of wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen on your face and neck every day. While moisturizers with SPF may seem convenient, it's crucial to understand why they don't offer adequate protection. Let's explore the evidence and discuss why our Radiant Marine Day Cream was formulated without SPF.

The Shortcomings of Moisturizers with SPF:

According to research conducted at the University of Liverpool, moisturizers with SPF provide less sun protection than dedicated sunscreens with typical use. The study demonstrates that people are likely applying SPF moisturisers much thinner than necessary to achieve the advertised level of SPF.

Matthew Gass of the British Association of Dermatologists, said:

“Unfortunately, moisturiser with SPF just don’t perform particularly well in real world situations compared to sunscreen." Although it may say factor 30 on the box, typical users aren't applying enough product to achieve this desired level of SPF.

Doctors and dermatologists alike warn not to rely on SPF moisturisers for your main sun protection needs.

Combining both in a single product can compromise the effectiveness of both functions (to moisturise and protect). Medical Dermatologist Nava Greenfield, MD, suggests that combining both a moisturiser and SPF will dilute the formula, and that "the best way to apply is to put on moisturizer first, then apply an SPF 30 or more each morning at least 15 minutes prior to sun exposure."

It's important to note that UVA, which damages the skins collagen, elastin, and causes wrinkles, can penetrate through windows, which is why its so important to wear SPF everyday, even if you're just sat inside!

Why We Designed Our Day Cream Without SPF:

At Sea the Love, we understand the importance of proper sun protection. That's why our Radiant Marine Day Cream was intentionally formulated without SPF. We recommend choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 to wear every day after applying our day cream. For best results, always wait for your moisturiser to be fully absorbed before applying your SPF - this goes for all moisturisers! A few minutes is typically enough time to wait between to the two steps.

Our day cream is lightweight, providing your skin with a hydrated glow, and is designed to sit seamlessly under SPF and makeup. By separating the moisturizer and sunscreen, you can achieve the optimal levels of both hydration and sun protection.

Remember, protecting your skin from the sun is a daily priority. Stay sun-safe and keep glowing!