For a lot of people, wearing SPF is still something we associate with being on holiday. It’s the product we grab at the last minute after going through security, and one that feels more like a beach accessory than something we use every day. 

However, wearing SPF daily will help to protect the skin barrier against harmful UV rays, which can have both short-term and long-term effects. 

“Sunscreen is essential to a daily skincare routine, as ultraviolet light impacts our skin in both cold and warm weather, and even on cloudy days,” says Dr Granite.

In fact, it’s thought that some UV rays can be stronger on cloudier days, so it’s important to wear a daily SPF to protect more exposed areas like your face, neck and hands to prevent burning and sun damage.

Having said that, Dr Granite highlights that during summer when we’re all spending a lot more time in the sun, it’s a great time to introduce SPF into your daily routine.

“Apply SPF prior to heading out and reapply when in the sun every two to three hours to maintain coverage,” Dr Granite advises. 

“Then wear a hat or cap when in the the sun for prolonged periods for extra protection and to keep the scalp from being over-exposed to UV radiation. Lastly, stay well hydrated, not only for overall health but also for skin maintenance, as dehydration can cause skin to appear dull and dry.”

“There are so many SPF formulations available now, that it is definitely possible for everyone to find a texture suited to their skin,” says Dr Granite. 

A product such as CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50 is ideal for everyday use because it provides moisturisation and protection in one simple step.

Enriched with three essential ceramides – lipids that help keep the skin barrier healthy and intact – this fast-absorbing and non-greasy formula will deliver a high level of UV protection as part of a regular morning skincare ritual. That means no faffing about with additional products, plus no extra expense as this lotion has all the good stuff in just one bottle. 

Another feature of this multi-tasker is that it’s non-comedogenic, or put more simply, it won’t clog pores unlike some other thicker, greasier SPF products. Therefore, this super lightweight moisturiser preps the skin for the day ahead, no matter your skin type.

“A good rule of thumb for how much to apply is the two finger rule – dispense two strips of product along your first and second fingers,” advises Dr Granite. “And always apply your SPF to the full face and neck as the last step in your skincare routine.”

“Sun damage is cumulative over time, so skipping sunscreen over the long term allows the UV rays to penetrate the skin and trigger cellular damage which can lead to skin ageing,” says Dr Granite when asked about why it’s so important to wear SPF every day. 

When working an SPF into your daily regime it’s imperative that you aren’t skipping applications simply because the sun isn’t out (or because it is and you’re feeling a bit pale). Using a combined SPF and moisturiser – like CeraVe AM Facial Moisturising Lotion SPF50 – will make building this habit easier & therefore giving better chance of protection.

Also, CeraVe products all use MVE – an innovative time-release technology that delivers targeted hydration throughout the day, adding another layer of effectiveness to your routine.

“Consistency with skincare is essential when it comes to maximising your results,” adds Dr Granite.

But what does that mean for seasonal skincare? According to Dr Granite, we don’t necessarily have to change things up – it all depends on personal preference or skin type.

“One step in your routine you may want to change throughout the year is your moisturiser, opting for a richer product in the colder months and a lighter formulation in the warmer months,” she says. 

“But SPF is an absolute essential all year round.”