Why Wearing SPF All Year Round is a Total Game-Changer for Spot-Prone Skin

When you think of sunscreen, you probably imagine summer vibes, beach trips, and those classic “don’t forget to reapply!” warnings from your mum. But here's the real talk: SPF isn’t just a summer fling – it's a year-round relationship, especially if you’ve got spot-prone skin or you're using spot treatments to tackle breakouts.

Yep, even when it’s grey outside (which, let’s be honest, is most of the time in the UK), UV rays are still doing their thing. And if you’re on a skincare journey involving active ingredients that target breakouts, your skin needs that extra layer of protection. Let’s break down why SPF deserves a permanent spot in your skincare routine.

Sun Damage? It's Not Just a Summer Problem

According to the NHS guidelines on sun safety, UV radiation can damage your skin even on cloudy days1. That means you’re soaking up those rays all year round – yes, even in winter. Excess sun exposure without protection can lead to early ageing, skin damage, and in worse case scenarios, certain types of skin cancer2.

SPF acts like an invisible shield, blocking harmful UVB rays that cause sunburn and UVA rays that penetrate deep into the skin, causing long-term damage. So if you’re serious about keeping your skin healthy and happy, SPF needs to be your ride-or-die – not just your summer crush.

Using Spot Treatments? Here’s Why SPF is Non-Negotiable

If you’re using products packed with active ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, retinoids, or exfoliating acids (salicylic, glycolic, etc.), first of all, you're smashing it by taking care of your skin. But there’s something you need to know: these powerhouse ingredients can make your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Basically, treatments that speed up cell turnover or clear clogged pores can leave your skin feeling fresh but also a bit vulnerable. Without SPF, you could be more susceptible to sunburn, redness and irritation3. And nothing’s worse than finally clearing a breakout only to be left with dark marks that won’t budge.

So while your spot-busting routine is working hard behind the scenes, SPF is there to protect all that progress from going backwards.

Blemish-Prone Skin + Sun = A Sticky Situation

You might be thinking, “But won’t SPF just clog my pores and make my skin worse?” Good question. The key is finding the right sunscreen for your skin type. Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas (basically, products that won’t block your pores). There are loads of oil-free and gel-textured SPFs out there that feel invisible on the skin – no greasy faces here, promise.

In fact, the Purifide Daily Moisturiser SPF 30 is perfect for spot-prone skin that needs protection from the sun. Packed with Ceramides, Liquorice Root Extract and Allantoin, Purifide’s Daily Moisturiser helps soothe and strengthen the skin barrier whilst providing a barely visible SPF that is lightweight and suitable for all skin tones.

Top Tips for SPF Success

Make it a daily habit: Apply SPF every single morning, rain or shine. It's just like brushing your teeth – an absolute must.
Reapply if you’re out and about: Especially if you’re spending time outdoors. Aim for every two hours if you’re exposed to the sun.
Don't skip it on cloudy days: UV radiation even gets through the clouds, so don’t think you’re safe in the winter!4
Apply enough: Most people don't use enough sunscreen. Aim for about two finger lengths of product for your face and neck.
Be mindful of your spot treatments: If you’re layering on active ingredients at night, double down on your SPF game during the day.

The Bottom Line

If you’re treating blemishes and breakouts, your skin is already working overtime to heal and glow up. Wearing SPF every day is like giving your skin the protection it deserves so it can do its thing without any extra drama.

SPF isn’t just about avoiding sunburns; it’s about keeping your skin strong, healthy, and resilient – whatever the weather. So whether it’s blazing sunshine or typical British drizzle, slap on that SPF and thank yourself later.

Your skin will love you for it. 🧴✨

References:

1. NHS. Sunscreen and sun safety [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2022. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/. Accessed: April 2025.

2. Verywellhealth. 5 Conditions Triggered by Excess Sun Exposure [Internet]. Verwellhealth.com. 2024. Available from: https://www.verywellhealth.com/too-much-sun-exposure-1298766. Accessed: April 2025.

3. NHS. Sunscreen and sun safety [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2022. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/. Accessed: April 2025.

4. Healthline. Yes, You Can Get a Sunburn Even on a Cloudy Day. Healthine.com. 2022. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/health/can-you-get-a-sunburn-on-a-cloudy-day. Accessed: April 2025