Fall is here, and as we enjoy the falling leaves and cooler weather, it can be tempting to neglect sunscreen in our skincare routine. But surprisingly, sunscreen remains essential even this season. In this article, we'll explore the importance of protecting your skin from sun damage during fall and how to incorporate sunscreen into your skincare routine .
We often forget that our skin is exposed to sun damage all year round, not just in summer, and even when it's cold or cloudy, the rays still hit the skin.
So why use sunscreen even in autumn? There are two types of solar rays : UVB and UVA .
Difference between UVB and UVA rays
UVB rays are the ones that cause sunburns (unfortunately, they're also responsible for many cancers) and lose their strength in the winter; UVA rays , on the other hand, are responsible for blemishes and wrinkles and are strong year-round. This means that you might not get sunburned, but if you don't use sunscreen , sun exposure can cause premature skin aging .
How to choose sunscreen for autumn?
Sunscreens are not all the same and can be chosen based on your skin type . For autumn, there are both fresh and light formulations, as well as thicker ones ideal for those with mainly dry skin.
To choose the best sunscreen for fall, listen to your skin's needs : if it's oily , choose fluid formulas, perhaps with a sebum-regulating effect ; if it's dry , opt for a highly hydrating formula with specific ingredients, even natural ones. There are also sunscreens with a luminous finish, to counteract dryness.
If, however, your skin is delicate and sensitive , choose a sunscreen with soothing ingredients capable of reducing irritation and having an emollient effect.
What are the best protections for autumn and winter?
In summer, you should always wear SPF 50 sunscreens on your face. In autumn, to prevent the appearance of blemishes and wrinkles , you should use a (minimum) broad-spectrum SPF 20 or 30 sunscreen, capable of blocking both UVA and UVB rays . It's also important for sunscreens to contain glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E to combat free radicals and the aging process. For autumn and winter, there are specific, light, and impalpable formulas that are ideal as a base under makeup.
When to apply SPF in the fall
Sunscreen should be applied daily in autumn , especially in the morning while you're doing your skincare routine. However, if you know you'll be spending more time outdoors during the day, it's a good idea to reapply every few hours. SPF remains effective for up to a couple of hours , so if you'll be out and about, we recommend carrying sunscreen in your purse at all times. This product should be applied as the last step in your skincare routine , after your moisturizer and on completely dry skin. It's also perfect as a makeup base.
