SPF 101: Why It’s Non-Negotiable (Even in Newcastle!)

Nurse Alice Brierley
Sep 1
3 min read

Let’s be honest - when you live in a place like Newcastle, where grey skies and rainy days are the norm, wearing SPF might not always feel like a daily essential. But here's the truth:

If you have skin, and you go outside (even briefly), you need SPF. Every. Single. Day.

Whether it’s cloudy, cold, or the middle of winter, UV rays are still at work, silently contributing to premature ageing, pigmentation, and long-term skin damage.

Here’s your crash course in why SPF is one of the most powerful skincare tools you have, and why we never let a client leave AB Aesthetics NCL without understanding its importance.

What Exactly Is SPF?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It measures how well a sunscreen protects your skin from UVB rays—the ones that cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer. But protection from UVA rays is just as important—these are the “ageing” rays that penetrate deeper and cause fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation.

✅ UVB = Burning✅ UVA = Ageing

A broad-spectrum SPF will shield you from both.

Why SPF Is Essential Year-Round

Even on cloudy or rainy days in Newcastle, up to 80% of UV rays still penetrate through clouds. UVA rays, in particular, can sneak through windows and affect your skin while driving or sitting indoors near natural light.

You don’t need direct sunlight to suffer long-term damage. That’s why SPF is a non-negotiable part of your skincare routine, not just a holiday product.

Top 5 Reasons to Wear SPF Daily

1. It Slows the Ageing Process

Up to 90% of visible skin ageing is caused by sun exposure. Daily SPF use helps prevent wrinkles, sagging, and dark spots before they start.

2. It Protects Your Post-Treatment Results

After treatments like microneedling, skin boosters, or chemical peels, your skin is more sensitive to UV damage. SPF is essential for healing and protecting your investment.

3. It Helps Prevent Hyperpigmentation

If you're prone to melasma, acne scarring, or dark spots, even minimal sun exposure can make pigmentation worse. SPF keeps these concerns under control.

4. It Reduces Skin Cancer Risk

The most important reason of all. Consistent use of SPF significantly reduces your risk of developing both melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.

5. It’s the Simplest Anti-Ageing Product You’ll Ever Use

Forget £200 face creams. No anti-ageing product will ever outperform sunscreen in the long term. It’s your first line of defence.

“But I Don’t Like Wearing Sunscreen…”

You’re not alone! Many people avoid SPF because they think it’s greasy, chalky, or doesn’t sit well under makeup.

That’s why we stock medical-grade SPFs that are:

Lightweight and non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores)
Suitable for sensitive or acne-prone skin
Designed to sit beautifully under makeup
Packed with antioxidants for extra skin benefits

Whether you prefer a matte finish, tinted formula, or hydrating version—we can help you find the perfect fit for your skin.

When and How to Apply SPF

Apply every morning, after your moisturiser and before makeup.
Use at least SPF 30, though SPF 50 is ideal for most people.
Don’t forget your neck, ears, and back of hands—they’re often missed but age quickly.
Reapply every 2–3 hours if you're outside, even on cloudy days.

Our Favourite Clinic-Approved SPFs

At AB Aesthetics NCL, we recommend only clinically proven, medical-grade sunscreens. Some client favourites include:

ZO Skin Health Broad‑Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50 – Great for oily or breakout-prone skin. Lightweight and non-comedogenic with a matte finish. It helps control oil while shielding skin from UVA, UVB, HEV, and infrared-A rays. Ideal for daily wear—even under makeup.
Obagi Sun Shield Tint Broad‑Spectrum SPF 50 – Tinted, glowy, and makeup-friendly. A beautifully formulated tinted sunscreen that matches your undertone (Cool or Warm). It provides broad-spectrum protection with a soft-focus finish, making it perfect as a base under or in place of foundation.
AlumierMD Sheer Hydration Broad‑Spectrum SPF 30 (Untinted or Tinted) – Ideal for dry, sensitive, or post-treatment skin. This physical sunscreen is ultra-hydrating and packed with antioxidants like resveratrol and vitamin E. The sheer, silky texture is perfect for calming the skin after treatments like microneedling or peels.

Pop into the clinic or ask during your appointment for a personalised SPF recommendation—we’ll help you match your product to your skin type, goals, and lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to live in the Mediterranean to need SPF.

Rain or shine, Newcastle weather doesn’t protect you from UV exposure—but a good sunscreen will. Adding SPF to your routine is the simplest, most powerful way to protect your skin, preserve your treatment results, and age beautifully.