The advanced fluid formula of Katherine Daniels’ SPF is designed to provide deep-reaching skin care and sun protection. Its active enzymes repair damage to DNA from UV exposure whilst antioxidants defend against pollution and blue light radiation. Nourishing and soothing the skin with a blend of chamomile and vitamin E, this one ticks our boxes for its broad spectrum protection and the fact it blends out beautifully to give invisible coverage.
Pros: thin formula wears comfortably in hot weather | contains several skin-restoring ingredients
Cons: pricey
FAQs
Is SPF50 better than 30 for the face?
The age-old question: SPF 30 or 50? “I am profoundly for SPF50. UV light is a known entity that not only causes premature ageing but also cancer, and they are both proven without a shadow of a doubt. Both of those things are highly preventable,” dermatologist Dr Bunting says. Not only does SPF50 offer 95 per cent protection from UV as opposed to SPF30’s 93 per cent (a two per cent difference which, over time, stacks up), but Dr Bunting also points out that we are not perfect – meaning many of us under-apply our SPF. “I’d much rather people were under-applying an SPF50 than a 30.”
Should I wear SPF every day?
By now, the myth that SPF is only necessary during the sunny season has been well and truly debunked. For those not in the know: a common misconception is that SPF protects against sunlight, but it’s actually invisible, skin-damaging UVA rays from the sun that it shields your face from. These harmful UVA rays radiate all year round, can penetrate clouds on an overcast day, and even pass through glass windows you’re sat by indoors to reach your skin. Sunscreen should be part of your skincare routine whatever the weather – consider it your daily defence.
What is the healthiest sunscreen for your face?
To protect skin against both UVA and UVB light – both of which cause damage to the skin – broad spectrum SPF is a must. “What’s really crucial when we’re talking about a good skincare routine is blocking the daily UVA rays which are present all year round,” explains Dr Bunting. “They can come through glass and actually form the bulk (95 per cent) of UV light that reaches the earth.”
While UVB is the UV light responsible for the (more visible) burn – and tends to be the one we focus on more because the damage is seen quickly – it’s really important to ensure your SPF protects against UVA too. UVA damage leads to fine lines, pigmentation, uneven skin texture, big pores, coarsening of the skin and loss of collagen – all the bad stuff. “Beach holidays aren’t so much the problem. It’s the everyday, half an hour out walking at lunchtime that builds up over the years.” A broad spectrum SPF offers a significant level of protection against both UVA and UVB rays, and should be worn by all skin tones.