How to choose a daily SPF: mineral, tinted or lightweight?
Written by Dr Elif Benar, dermatologist at Dr Elif Clinic, 54 Harley Street, London. Our doctors use and recommend these products in clinic every day.
If you only add one product to your routine, make it a broad-spectrum sunscreen. UV exposure is the main cause of premature ageing and makes pigmentation such as melasma and sun spots worse, even on cloudy UK days.
What to look for
- SPF 30 or higher for UVB protection.
- Broad spectrum / UVA protection: in the UK, look for a UVA logo or star rating.
- A texture you enjoy: you need to apply it every day, and reapply when outdoors.
Our options
- Dr Elif Mineral UV Sunscreen SPF 50+: a mineral, non-greasy sunscreen, and the one we recommend most for everyday use.
- Obagi Sun Shield Mineral SPF 50: a mineral formula suitable for sensitive skin.
- Obagi Sun Shield Tint Cool and Tint Warm: tinted mineral SPF that evens out the look of the skin, a good choice for pigmentation.
- Obagi Lip Therapy SPF 30: lips burn too, especially if you use retinoids.
How much and how often
Use about two finger-lengths for the face and neck. Apply as the last step of your morning routine and reapply every two hours when you are outdoors, after swimming or after sweating.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need SPF in winter?
Yes. UVA, which ages the skin and worsens pigmentation, is present all year and passes through clouds and windows.
Is make-up with SPF enough?
Usually not, because most people apply too little make-up to reach the stated SPF. Use a sunscreen underneath.
Why tinted SPF for pigmentation?
Visible light can worsen pigmentation such as melasma. Iron oxides in tinted sunscreens help block it.
Need help choosing?
Every skin is different. If you are unsure which product suits you, book a consultation at Dr Elif Clinic on Harley Street, or send us a message through our contact page. This article is general information and is not a substitute for personal medical advice.