SPF in makeup isn't enough to protect your skin, experts warn

Proof that sunscreen is a necessary step in your routine, whatever the weather

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The season of sun is almost upon us and with it comes one of beauty’s biggest dilemmas.

Because, while we all crave that sun-kissed beachy glow, we’re also well aware of the havoc it can wreak on our skin.

Of course, we also know that we should be wearing a sunscreen year round but no matter how hard we try, that extra step in your beauty routine can be hard to get on board with.

So, could two-in-one cosmetics that smooth the appearance of your skin and deliver SPF be the answer?

It seems not. Unfortunately, while the beauty industry is overflowing with makeup products containing SPF including foundations, primers and even powders, they just don’t get the job done on their own and should by no means replace sunscreen altogether.

“Many people believe that having an SPF in their moisturiser or foundation for example will suffice,” consultant dermatologist for La Roche-Posay, Justine Hextall told The Independent.

“But, it is important to remember that SPF only refers to protection against UVB. UVA is a longer wavelength that can penetrate glass. It is the main wavelength that damages our collagen and also can increase our risk of skin cancer.

“As such I recommend a factor 50 sun cream with both good UVB and UVA protection and preferably anti-oxidants to protect against the more visible light spectrum.”

And the British Association of Dermatology agrees adding: “SPF used in moisturisers are tested the same way as sunscreens, so an SPF 15 moisturiser should provide an SPF of 15.

“However, these formulas are less likely to be rub-resistant and water resistant, and most importantly are likely to be applied a lot more thinly than sunscreen. They therefore are unlikely to offer the same level of protection.

“A moisturiser with an SPF will help protect you against small amounts of UV exposure, such as when you walk to the car or pop outside to hang out the washing, but sunscreen is better suited for longer, more deliberate UV exposure, such as spending your lunch hour outside.”

But one expert is quick to point out that cosmetics containing SPF aren’t completely pointless. Instead, they should be used in conjunction with sunscreen and other SPF products.

“As we tend to touch our faces a great deal and remove products slightly, layering of SPF products is always a good thing to ensure protection and maximum coverage across the face,” Boots Soltan Suncare Expert, Clare O’Connor told the Daily Mail.

“Really go for a minimum of SPF 15 as there is a tendency to apply a much thinner layer that recommended and using a minimum of 15 will allow a good level of protection when used in conjunction with a minimum of SPF 15 day cream.”