Should we still be wearing SPF while self-isolating indoors?

Any skincare fan will know the importance of wearing SPF.

Along with a daily hyaluronic acid dose and a hit of retinol before bedtime, wearing sunscreen everyday is a beauty-must that is constantly drilled into our minds.

With most of us self-isolating indoors at the moment it begs the question as to whether we still need to top our moisturiser with a dose of SPF.

“It’s an interesting topic and one I’m being asked frequently at the moment,” said Dermalogica skincare expert Candice Gardner.

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“Those who have been rigorous with sticking to an SPF regimen are now questioning whether this still remains a necessity. Much of this depends on the individual, how you’re spending your time and what your home layout is like.

“We’re still encouraged to seek fresh air once a day and as the sunshine is out, it’s imperative that you protect your skin. It may not seem hot enough for you to be concerned about the impact, but the UVA rays are still strong enough to lead to skin damage.

“It's also important to consider where you’ve set up your working from home desk,” she the Dermalogica education manager. “If you have set up near a window, it’s important to still continue with your daily SPF regimen.

“You may have heard that you can't get a sunburn through glass, but that doesn't mean glass blocks all ultraviolet, or UV, light. The rays that lead to skin or eye damage can still get through, even if you don't get burned. Whilst UVB, the high intensity wavelengths that cause burning, cannot penetrate glass, you will still be vulnerable to the skin damaging and ageing effects of UVA”.

Candice also warned that blue light emitted from computer screens and smartphone devices could have “potential for health concerns”, so that it is best to be on the safe side when it comes to SPF protection.

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“Research is still emerging in this area and we do not yet have sufficient data collected over time to define accurately the level of exposure required to cause a specific degree of damage,” said Candice.

“However, since blue light borders UVA in the electromagnetic spectrum, some sunscreen filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide can also shield from blue light at the same time as providing UV protection”.

Didn’t realise you still needed to top up your SPF? Here are some of our favourites to get your hands on ASAP…

SPF products to wear indoors

The Body Shop Skin Defence

This non-greasy formula protects against UVA/UVB rays while the infusion of vitamin C leaves the complexion with a brighter finish.

SHOP NOW: The Body Shop Skin Defence Multi-Protection Lotion SPF 50+, £18, The Body Shop (opens in new tab)

Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel

Ideal for oily skin types this ultra-light gel formula is soothing and protective.

SHOP NOW: Kiehl’s Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel, £29, Feel Unique (opens in new tab)

Beauty Pie Super Healthy Skin

The low-SPF moisturiser is sinks straight into skin and leaves a lovely silky finish.

SHOP NOW: Beauty Pie Super Healthy Skin™ Ultralight Uva/Uvb Spf25, £35 (Members pay £9.95), Beauty Pie (opens in new tab)

Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense

This invisible formula provides added blue light protection for all of the technology-fuelled days of self-isolation.

SHOP NOW: Dermalogica Invisible Physical Defense Spf30, £49, Feel Unique (opens in new tab)

La Roche-Posay Anthelios

A water and sweat resistant product that will keep you protected on your daily walk and even during garden sunbathing sessions.

SHOP NOW: La Roche-Posay Anthelios Shaka Ultra Light Fluid SPF30, £13.10 (Currently on sale), Look Fantastic (opens in new tab)

Better top up before the sun comes back out!