Six common SPF myths debunked

Posted by Liz Earle Beauty Co.

April 15, 2021

2 min read

Do you know your SPF facts from your fiction? You might think you’ve got it covered, but these common sun cream misconceptions can put a block on the best planned skincare routines – leaving you feeing (and looking) red-faced. To mark the launch of our Environmental Defence Cream SPF 25 we’ve gone on an SPF myth-busting mission, so you can properly protect your skin every day.

You only need SPF in summer

Don’t let your judgement be clouded by overcast weather. Damaging UVA and UVB rays are capable of penetrating through clouds and are still present during the winter months which is why we recommend applying our Environmental Defence Cream SPF 25 protection daily, rain or shine. There are plenty of benefits of wearing sunscreen on your face everyday. SPF daily use can help to reduce premature ageing and help to prevent skin damage.

Make up blocks UV rays

Put down the make up bag – it’s not going to block any UV rays. Unless your foundation includes SPF, your skin will still feel the sun’s effects. As some foundations only feature a low level of protection it’s still better to have a dedicated SPF step in your skincare routine – especially if it primes your skin for make up like our Environmental Defence Cream SPF 25.

SPF will clog my pores

While this can be true of some formulas, our mineral cream is non-comedogenic (meaning it’s proven not to block your pores) and is suitable for all skin types, even sensitive. Because we’ve opted for naturally derived mineral protection, it’s actually a more suitable option for sensitive skin – find out why here.

Mineral SPF will leave pale residue

Nope! Although some mineral SPFs can, to avoid this issue we’ve added a light reflecting tinted pigment to our formula so that it blends with all skin tones, leaving your complexion looking healthy and luminous.

You only need to apply SPF once a day

Once you’ve applied SPF in your morning routine, you’re probably going to need to reapply it throughout the day, especially in summer. If it’s particularly sunny, your protection is going to decrease throughout the day. Re-applying SPF every two hours when you’re in the sun will protect you from putting your skin at risk.

You can't tan with SPF

Using an SPF is going to delay how long it takes for your skin to tan, but it’s not going to stop you from tanning altogether. There’s no such thing as a total sunblock, so, even with an SPF you’re going to tan at some point. Using an SPF when you’re in the sun will protect your skin from total damage, leaving a longer lasting colour too. But it’s important to remember the risks when out in the sun for long periods.

What is SPF?

SPF or Sun Protection Factor is a measure of how well a product will protect your skin from UV rays from the sun. The higher the SPF you have, the longer your sun protection will last. The number following the SPF will tell you how long it might take you to get sunburned once you’ve applied the product compared to not wearing any at all.