Your skin & the spring sun!
Spring is here, and with it comes more time outdoors, longer evenings, and often overlooked significantly stronger UV exposure than winter.
At The Good Skin Company, we believe that sun protection isn't just a summer habit. It's a year-round essential, and it's never too late (or too early) to start doing it properly.
First things first: what is SPF?
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It's a measure of how well a product protects your skin from a specific type of UV radiation but here's the key thing most people don't realise: SPF only measures protection against one type of UV ray, not both.
To understand why that matters, we need to talk about the two main types of UV rays that reach your skin every day.
UVA vs UVB - what's the difference?
UVA the ageing ray UVA rays have a longer wavelength, which means they penetrate deep into the skin reaching the dermis, where collagen and elastin live. These are the rays most responsible for premature ageing, pigmentation, and long-term skin damage. Crucially, UVA rays are present all year round, even on cloudy days, and they pass straight through glass.
UVB the burning ray UVB rays have a shorter wavelength and affect the surface layers of the skin. They're the primary cause of sunburn and play a major role in the development of skin cancer. UVB intensity varies with the seasons and time of day. Spring and summer see a significant increase, which is exactly why this time of year matters so much for your skin.
The SPF number on your sunscreen only tells you about UVB protection. To know you're protected against UVA too, look for products labelled "broad spectrum" or that carry a UVA circle logo. At The Good Skin Company, we only recommend broad spectrum options, because half the story isn't good enough.
So what do the SPF numbers actually mean?
A lot of people assume SPF 50 is "double the protection" of SPF 25. It's not quite that simple. Here's a straightforward breakdown:
| SPF level | UVB rays blocked | What it means in practice |
|---|---|---|
| SPF 15 | 93% | Suitable for very low exposure days / mostly indoors |
| SPF 30 | 97% | Good daily minimum — fine for most everyday use |
| SPF 50 | 98% | Recommended for outdoor time or fair / sensitive skin |
| SPF 50+ | 98%+ | Highest available — ideal for prolonged sun exposure |
The jump from SPF 30 to SPF 50 is smaller than people expect but it still matters, especially if you're spending time outdoors, have reactive skin, or are managing pigmentation or post-treatment skin. The real key, however, is not just the number, it's how much you apply, and how often.
Simple tips for getting sun protection right this spring
Apply every morning - not just when it's sunny UVA rays are present even on overcast days and come through windows. Make SPF the last step of your morning skincare, every day.
Use enough product Most people apply far too little. For the face and neck, you need about a teaspoon's worth. If you're applying too thinly, the SPF rating won't deliver its stated protection.
Reapply every two hours outdoors Sunscreen breaks down with UV exposure, sweat, and touch. If you're outside for extended periods, reapplication is essential - not optional.
Don't forget your neck and hands These areas often show the first signs of sun-related ageing, yet they're frequently missed. Treat them with the same care as your face.
Why we recommend Heliocare
At The Good Skin Company, we've tried a lot of sunscreens. For our clients, particularly those who are new to SPF or dealing with sensitive, reactive, or post-treatment skin. Our go-to recommendation is Heliocare.
Heliocare is a dermatologist-developed, clinically tested range that goes beyond standard sun protection. Here's why we love it:
Broad spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Contains Fernblock® - a natural antioxidant derived from a fern extract that helps neutralise free radical damage.
Lightweight, non-greasy formulas that work well under makeup.
Options for all skin types - including oily, sensitive, and darker skin tones.
Suitable for daily use, not just beach days.
You can pick up yours from out clinic or send us an email and we arrange posting it out to you.
