Wearing an SPF is widely regarded as a skincare essential. Not only does wearing the right SPF protect you from skin cancers, it will also prevent premature ageing, as sun damage is known to cause sagging, pigmentation formation and the development of fine lines and wrinkles.
Choosing the correct Sun Protection Factor is the easy bit, look for a UVA and UVB protective sunscreen with a high SPF factor (30+ is good) to keep your skin supple and shielded from damage. After choosing your sunscreen you might wonder how you can really make the most of it, we’re here to show you three ways to enhance your SPF this summer!
Partner SPF With Vitamin C
Introducing the power couple of summer 2022, vitamin C and SPF. In a 2013 study is was found that “sunscreens block only 55% of the free radicals produced by UV exposure”, when under strict lab conditions it was shown that applying a 10% vitamin C serum reduced UVB-induced redness by 52%, as well as reducing sunburn cell formation by 40-60%. So, forget Love Island, the perfect couple this summer is vitamin C and SPF!
Apply a light layer of the Obagi Professional-C® Serum 10% to your skin prior to applying your SPF as part of your morning routine. Allow this potent antioxidant serum to absorb before continuing with your skincare routine. Not only will this serum naturally boost your sunscreen, it will also brighten your complexion and help to create a more even tone by reducing the appearance of broken capillaries and mild pigmentation.
Apply Your SPF at the Right Time
Firstly, you’ll need a broad spectrum SPF, this means that the product protects against both UVA and UVB rays, a brilliant choice is the Obagi Sun Shield Matte Broad Spectrum SPF 50. This best selling, fragrance-free, sunscreen uses both chemical and physical ingredients to keep you shielded from sun damage.
As a general skincare rule, apply your SPF last, allowing all the lighter serums and creams to be applied first. Make sure all of your other skincare products applied prior to SPF have fully absorbed before applying your sunscreen. By doing this you’ll be getting the most from your products and keeping your skin protected.
Eat SPF Boosting Foods
Who would’ve thought it, eating certain foods can help protect your skin from sun damage! Eating antioxidant rich foods like blueberries will help to fight off the free radicals that can damage the skin, blueberries are also a brilliant source of vitamin C, another powerful antioxidant that will help brighten the skin and prevent premature ageing.
A study published by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that eating Watermelon can help protect your skin from sun damage and reduce wrinkle formation. Watermelon contains lycopene, this antioxidant absorbs UVA and UVB radiation, it can take several weeks for it to take effect, however after this time your skin is sure to become more photoprotective, with lycopene acting as a natural sunscreen. So this summer, why not try adding watermelon to your diet, this shouldn’t replace the use of SPF creams, however a little added boost is always helpful, especially for those looking to keep their skin looking youthful.
Here you have it, 3 ways to naturally boost your SPF this Summer – now you can enjoy the sunshine, safely knowing your skin is protected and premature ageing is a distant memory.