Understanding SPF in Skincare
At Your Chester Spa, we believe healthy skin is not only about correction, but prevention too.
SPF is one of the most important parts of any skincare routine, yet it is often underestimated or only associated with holidays and hot weather.
Consistent daily sun protection plays a significant role in supporting long-term skin health and helping to protect the skin from preventable damage.
Why Is SPF Important?
Daily UV exposure contributes significantly to premature skin ageing and increases the risk of skin cancer.
Over time, UV damage can lead to:
- Pigmentation and uneven skin tone
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Collagen breakdown
- Loss of skin elasticity
- Premature ageing of the skin
Even on cloudy days, UV exposure is still present. This is why SPF should be worn daily, not only during summer or while abroad.
How Does SPF Support The Skin?
SPF helps protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation, reducing the cumulative damage caused by repeated daily sun exposure.
Protecting the skin consistently is one of the most effective ways to support healthier skin long term and maintain a more even, balanced complexion over time.
When Should SPF Be Applied?
SPF should generally be applied after moisturiser and before makeup as the final step within your skincare routine.
For the face and neck, around two finger lengths of SPF is typically recommended to help achieve appropriate coverage and protection.
Are All SPF Products The Same?
Not all SPF products provide the same level of protection.
A dedicated broad-spectrum SPF of at least factor 30 is generally recommended for reliable daily protection.
One common misconception is that makeup containing SPF alone provides enough coverage. In reality, makeup products are often not applied in sufficient amounts to achieve the level of protection stated on the packaging.
Dr Catherine Harris’ Recommended SPF Products:
Daily Protection
Life Defence SPF – TEMPLESPA
A feather-light moisturiser with SPF 30 or 50, and antioxidants to help shield skin from daily stress. Enriched with ginseng root, vitamin E and hyaluronic acid to leave skin feeling protected, hydrated and radiant and healthy.
Lips Protection
Lip Defence SPF – TEMPLESPA
A nourishing lip balm with SPF 30 and blue light protection to help defend against environmental stressors. Enriched with vitamins C & E and sodium hyaluronate to leave lips feeling smoother, hydrated and comforted.
High Protection
Crème Solaire SPF 50 – Yon-ka Paris
A high-protection SPF 50 sun cream with broad-spectrum UVA and UVB defence to help protect skin from sun damage. Enriched with tea polyphenols and vitamins E and B5 to leave skin feeling hydrated, comfortable and radiant.
Why Consistency Matters?
SPF is most effective when used consistently as part of your everyday routine.
Many visible signs of skin ageing are strongly linked to cumulative sun exposure over time. Daily SPF use helps support the skin not only cosmetically, but also from a wider skin health perspective.
Our Approach At Your Chester Spa:
At Your Chester Spa, we take a medically informed approach to skincare.
Dr Catherine Harris, MBChB, FRCGP can assess your skin, identify underlying concerns and guide you towards the most appropriate skincare products and treatments for your individual needs.
Supporting Healthier Skin Long-Term:
Healthy skin is not simply about treating concerns once they appear. Prevention and protection are equally important.
Understanding the importance of SPF and using it consistently every day is one of the simplest and most effective ways to support long term skin health. 🤍
Follow Along
You can follow the series across our social channels, where Dr Catherine Harris will be sharing guidance, insights and practical advice to support your skin at every stage.
A more considered approach to skincare starts here.
Call Us: 📞 01244 575888
Email Us: 📧 reception@yourchesterspa.co.uk
