Healthy, glowing skin starts with sun protection. But with so many SPF options on the market, itβs easy to get confused. How often should you wear it? When should you reapply? Which products are best for face and body? In this guide, we answer your top SPF questions and help you protect your skin every day, all year round.
Do I Really Need SPF Every Day?
Yes! UV rays can damage your skin even on cloudy or overcast days. UVA rays contribute to premature ageing, causing wrinkles, fine lines, and dark spots, while UVB rays are the main cause of sunburn. Both increase the risk of skin cancer.
Daily SPF isnβt just for summer days itβs for your everyday commute, your time at the office, or even sitting near a window at home. A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays, making it the smartest choice for long-term skin health.
For lightweight, daily coverage that wonβt leave your skin greasy, try the Invisible Face Serum SPF50. Itβs perfect for under makeup or as part of your morning skincare routine.
How Often Should You Reapply SPF?
Applying sunscreen once isnβt enough. Even high-SPF products lose effectiveness over time due to sweating, swimming, or towel drying.
The general rule: reapply every 2 hours for consistent protection.
Face: Use the Reapplication Face & Body Mist SPF50Β throughout the day for a quick, mess-free refresh. Perfect for work, gym, or beach days.
Body: Our SPF50+ Coconut Sunscreen Lotion 1LT covers large areas quickly, keeps your skin hydrated, and leaves a subtle tropical scent.
Pro tip: Apply SPF 30 minutes before sun exposure for maximum effectiveness. Layering SPF under makeup or moisturiser doesnβt reduce protection when applied correctly.
Top SPF Mistakes to Avoid
Even diligent sunscreen users can make mistakes that reduce SPF effectiveness. Here are the most common pitfalls:
1. Not Applying Enough
Most people use only about half the recommended amount.
For full protection:
Face & neck: at least a teaspoon
Body: roughly a shot glass-sized amount.Β
Applying generously ensures the SPF rating on the bottle actually protects your skin.
2. Forgetting Certain Areas
Ears, neck, scalp, hands, and tops of feet are often missed. These areas are highly susceptible to sun damage. Make it a habit to cover all exposed skin, even if itβs just a short walk outside.
3. Reapplying Too Late or Not at All
Sunscreen wears off. Activities like swimming, sweating, or towel-drying require more frequent reapplication. The Reapplication Face & Body Mist SPF50Β makes it easy to refresh your coverage anytime.
4. Using Expired Sunscreen
Sunscreen loses potency over time. Check the expiry date, especially if youβve stored products in a beach bag or car over summer. Expired SPF is almost like not wearing sunscreen at all.
5. Skipping SPF Indoors
UVA rays can penetrate glass. Even if youβre mostly indoors or driving, your skin still needs protection. Daily SPF, like the Ultra Light Hydrating Face Lotion SPF 50+ 50mL, keeps your skin safe from daily sun exposure.
Choosing the Right SPF for You
Selecting the right sunscreen can feel overwhelming, but it doesnβt have to be.
Consider these factors:
Broad-spectrum protection: Shields against both UVA (ageing) and UVB (burning) rays.
SPF level: SPF30 is a minimum for everyday use; SPF50+ is ideal for extended sun exposure.
Water resistance: Essential for swimming, sweating, or high-activity days.
Texture: Serums for face, mists for quick reapplication, lotions for full-body coverage.
Our range covers every need:
SPF for Face β lightweight daily face protection.
SPF for Face & Body β perfect for the whole body.
SPF Sport XP β Ideal for for swimming, sweating, or high-activity days.
Quick Tips for Effective SPF Use
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Cover often-missed areas: ears, neck, hands, feet.
- Donβt rely on makeup alone, layer SPF under makeup for full protection.
- Reapply every 2 hours, and more often after swimming or sweating.
- Store sunscreen in a cool, dry place to maintain effectiveness.
FAQ: Your SPF Questions Answered
1. Can I use the same SPF for face and body?
Yes, but facial skin is often more sensitive. The SPF50+ Illuminating Face Glow Serum 40ml is formulated for delicate facial skin, while the SPF50+ Coconut Sunscreen Spray 250ML is ideal for body use.
2. Is SPF necessary on cloudy days?
Absolutely! Up to 80% of UV rays pass through clouds, so daily SPF use is crucial to prevent long-term damage.
3. How do I know if I need to reapply?
Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming, sweating, or towel drying. Use the Reapplication Face & Body Mist SPF50 for an easy top-up.
4. Does higher SPF mean I can stay in the sun longer?
Higher SPF offers more protection, but no sunscreen is βall-day.β Regular reapplication and sun-safe behaviours, like seeking shade, are still necessary.
5. Can I rely on makeup with SPF?
Makeup alone usually doesnβt provide enough coverage. Always layer a dedicated SPF product, like Invisible Face Serum SPF50, underneath.
6. Can SPF prevent ageing?
Yes! Broad-spectrum SPF protects against UVA rays, which are primarily responsible for premature ageing, fine lines, and dark spots.
7. Is water-resistant SPF really effective?
Yes, but you still need to reapply after swimming or heavy sweating. Water-resistant formulas like Coconut SPF50 LotionΒ are ideal for beach or pool days.
Sun protection doesnβt have to be complicated. With the right SPF, correct application, and regular reapplication, you can enjoy the outdoors while keeping your skin healthy, hydrated, and radiant. Whether you prefer a serum, mist, or lotion, the Le Tan SPF range has you covered from head to toe.
