Skincare · 4 min read ·
Do you really need SPF in Northern Ireland?
Grey skies do not stop UVA. Why daily sun protection is the most effective anti-ageing step, even in Derry.
Quick answer: Yes. UVA rays, which age the skin and darken pigmentation, pass through cloud and glass all year. A broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning is the single best thing you can do for your skin.
UVA versus UVB
UVB causes burning and is strongest in summer. UVA penetrates deeper, breaks down collagen and is present at similar levels all year, even on cloudy days.
Why it matters for treatments
Lasers, peels and retinol make skin more sensitive. Skipping SPF can undo results and cause pigmentation.
Choosing an SPF you will use
The best SPF is the one you wear daily. Oily skin often prefers matte formulas such as Obagi Sun Shield Matte, and tinted options double as a light base.
How much
Use around half a teaspoon for the face and neck, and reapply every two hours outdoors.
Common questions
Is the SPF in my make-up enough?
Usually not, because we apply far less make-up than the amount used in testing.
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Written by the Skin Deep Aesthetics clinical team, 6 Carlisle Road, Derry. This article is general information, not medical advice. Book a consultation for advice about your own skin.
