Blog
Busting Myths About SPF
May 07, 2021
We’re all told to remember our sunscreen and make sure to protect our skin - but why is SPF so important?
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) helps to protect the skin against harmful UV rays which can damage our skin.
What are UV rays and how do they affect the skin?
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a form of electromagnetic radiation that comes from the sun. There are two types on UV rays which are known to affect skin – UVA and UVB.
UVA rays have a lower amount of energy and can cause indirect damage to cell’s DNA. They are also linked to long-term skin damage such as wrinkles, fine lines and signs of premature aging.
UVB have a higher level of energy and are the rays which are responsible for skin burn. They can damage the skin cells directly and are responsible for most types of skin damage and cancer.
Busting myths about SPF
We’re usually reminded about wearing sunscreen in the summer months or have it drawn to our attention by the travel aisles in the shops. This may lead you to believe you only need SPF in hot weather. False! A facial sunscreen should be a staple in your everyday routine. This is because UVA rays are a threat all year round, rain or shine. They can also penetrate glass, so even if you’re sat indoors on a rainy day, it is always important to remember your SPF.
How can I protect my skin?
There are two types of protection. Physical and chemical. Physical sunscreens contain active mineral ingredients which work by sitting on top of the skin (often giving the skin a white appearance) to deflect and scatter damaging UV rays away from the skin. They are effective at protecting against UVB rays however, they can not protect against the full spectrum of rays.
Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing the sun's rays (and converting them to heat) and offer full protection against the whole spectrum of damaging UVA and UVB rays. They tend to be lighter in texture than physical SPF products, and do not block pores or cause breakouts, so are often preferred as an everyday solution.
Experts suggest wearing SPF 30 as this protects skin against 97% of rays and offers the optimum protection. However, no sunscreen can protect the skin entirely so it is always important to remember to be sensible and shield your skin in other ways such as clothing and keeping to the shade when it is particularly hot.
The performance of your SPF also depends on how you apply it to the skin and what you are doing throughout the day. If you are swimming or taking part in high-intensity exercise where SPF may be compromised, it is always a good idea to reapply. Make sure to use a generous amount to ensure skin is properly covered.
ARK Skincare’s SPF 30 Primer
ARK Skincare’s Skin Protector SPF 30 Primer is one of our hero products. Labelled as a favourite by many of our customers, this award winning formulation is perfect for everyone. It can also be used as a beautifully light daily moisturiser, make-up primer and a facial sunscreen all in one, making it ideal for anyone looking for a simple yet effective skincare routine.
Our SPF 30 Primer is classified as a chemical SPF. We chose this route as we believe it is important to offer a product with broad spectrum protection. This means that skin is shielded against both UVA and UVB rays and is given the utmost protection.
Whilst the formulation contains the necessary compounds to offer effective protection, it is still 65% natural as it contains active natural ingredients to hydrate, offer antioxidant protection, and provide a silky smooth luminous finish to the skin.
Hyaluronic Acid optimises the circulation of water throughout all layers of the skin leaving it hydrated with a youthful radiant glow whilst Shea Butter works as a natural UV filter and helps to regenerates skin cells . Sunflower soothes calms and heals, making it ideal for those who suffer with sensitive skin, rosacea or eczema. Vitamin E protects skin with anti-oxidant properties.
Do you suffer from sensitive skin? Exposure to the sun is a common sensitivity trigger, especially for those with rosacea, but unfortunately many SPF products irritate sensitive skin. You are in safe hands with our SPF30 Primer though, which has been dermatologically tested and approved for sensitive skin.
How & When
Apply your SPF to cleansed skin as the last part of your daily skincare routine. Apply alone or before make-up application to create a smooth, flawless base ready for make-up. Re-apply throughout the day if required.
Reviews
“I was looking for a great vegan cruelty free moisturiser suitable for my very sensitive skin. I bought the moisturiser and this primer following the great reviews in the media and on this website. I have not been disappointed. I have not used primer for many years but this is lovely my skin is soft and glowing - my foundation looks so much better. I was thinking of changing my foundation but now don’t need to. Highly recommend.” –Janine E, Verified Buyer
“At last! An spf moisturiser I can use! As a 40 something lady who has skin than has never been settled (rosacea, acne and now wrinkles!) I have struggled to find an spf moisturiser that doesn’t either sting or break me out until now. This skin protector is the best I’ve ever found! It goes on smoothly, feels silky and leaves no sticky residue. Most importantly it doesn’t upset my skin. Thank you!!” – Gemma, Verified Buyer
“ Love love love. This product was recommended to me by Rosie in your customer service department, and.....OMG I LOVE IT! It soaks in really quickly, my skin feels great and it leaves a lovely light sheen to my skin. So much so, I've stopped wearing a skin brightening make up product I've always used. Big thumbs up from me.” – Judy E