What SPF does for your skin

Sunscreen (SPF) · Broad-spectrum sunscreen · UV filter · Zinc Oxide · Titanium Dioxide

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SPF is the single most worthwhile daily skincare step, full stop. In cosmetic terms it shields and protects. The mindset shift that makes it click: SPF isn't about what you'll see, it's about what you'll avoid. You won't watch it work, you just skip the damage you'd otherwise be racking up every day.

What Sunscreen is

Broad-spectrum SPF is the daily habit every other active leans on. It doesn't undo the past; it protects the days ahead. Because you can't see prevention, it's the easiest step to skip, and the one most worth keeping. Mineral formulas (zinc or titanium) suit sensitive skin especially well.

What Sunscreen is good for

protecting every other step in your routine
keeping the look of tone and texture on track over time
sensitive skin (mineral formulas are a lovely fit)
anyone using acids, BHA, retinoids or vitamin C

How to use it

Every morning, rain or shine, all year.
Aim for SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum.
Use a generous amount: the two-finger rule covers face and neck.
It's a must whenever you use AHAs, BHA, retinoids or vitamin C.

What it pairs with

Everything, and it's required with any active that makes skin more sun-sensitive (AHAs, BHA, retinoids, vitamin C). SPF is the last step of every morning routine.

Sunscreen for specific concerns

SPF for uneven tone

helps keep the look of an even tone on track over time

mineral vs chemical sunscreen

mineral (zinc or titanium) is a lovely pick for sensitive skin

how much sunscreen to use

the two-finger rule covers face and neck

SPF with retinol

essential whenever you use a sun-sensitising active like retinol

Frequently asked questions

What does SPF do for skin?

In cosmetic terms, SPF shields and protects. It's the single most worthwhile daily step: it prevents the new damage you'd otherwise accumulate each day. You won't see it working, you just avoid what you'd lose.

How much sunscreen should I use?

Use a generous amount: the two-finger rule (a line of product along your index and middle fingers) covers your face and neck. Most people under-apply, which lowers the protection you actually get.

What SPF number should I choose?

Aim for SPF 30 or higher and make sure it says broad-spectrum. Apply it every morning, all year, as the final step of your routine.

Is mineral or chemical sunscreen better?

Both protect. Mineral formulas (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) are a lovely choice for sensitive skin. The best sunscreen is the one you'll actually wear every day.

Do I need SPF if I use retinol or acids?

Yes, more than ever. AHAs, BHA, retinoids and vitamin C all make skin more sun-sensitive, so daily SPF is essential the whole time you use them.

Baselit is a cosmetic skin-analysis app, not medical advice. This guide describes what ingredients do for the look and feel of skin. It is not a diagnosis or treatment, and it is no substitute for a doctor or dermatologist.