Whether you're headed to the beach or just out for a walk, sunscreen is your skin's first line of defence against harmful UV rays. And while sun-kissed glow may seem charming, unprotected exposure to the sun's rays cab come with serious downsides from sunburn and premature ageing to long-term skin damage and even increased cancer risk. But don't worry, love. With a bit of sunscreen know-how and a few simple habits, you can protect your skin and keep it glowing beautifully, inside and out.

Why Sunscreen Matters Every Day

Too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can:

1. Accelerate signs of ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, and pigmentation
2. Worsen existing skin conditions like melasma and rosacea
3. Weaken your skin barrier, leading to increased sensitivity
4. Contribute to the development of skin cancers
5. And, of course, lead to painful sunburn!

The good news? A good sunscreen, applied daily, is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your skin and preserve its youthful radiance.

When Should You Wear Sunscreen?

Every. Single. Day.

Yes, even when it's cloudy. Even if you're staying mostly indoors. UV rays can penetrate windows and reflect off surfaces like water, snow and concrete. Whether it's a beach day or a run to the shops, make SPF part of your daily routine — just like brushing your teeth.

How Much Sunscreen Do You Need?

A general rule of thumb is:

1. Face and neck: about a teaspoon (or two fingers' worth)

2. Body: about one ounce (a shot glass full) for full body coverage

Spots We Often Forget (But Shouldn't)

• Ears
• Lips
• Back of neck
• Eyelids
• Tops of feet and hands
• Scalp and part line

Chemical vs. Mineral Sunscreen: What's the Difference

Chemical Sunscreen: These absorb UV rays and convert them into heat. They tend to be lighter and less visible on the skin. Look for ingredients like avobenzone, octinoxate and oxybenzone.

Mineral Sunscreen: These sit on the skin and reflect UV rays. Ideal for sensitive skin, they use ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Does it matter which one? Not really — the most important thing is to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, and one that you'll actually wear every day. bonus point if it's water-resistant and suitable for your skin type.

How Often Should Your Reapply?

Every 2 hours, especially if you're outside. Sooner if you're sweating or swimming. if you're wearing makeup, try an SPF mist or powder for a quick refresh without smudging your look.

What If You Get Sunburned?

Despite our best intentions, the sun can sometimes catch us off guard. If you do end up with a sunburn, treat your skin with extra care:

‣ Gently cool the affected area using a cold compress or take a cool (not cold) shower.

‣ Apply a soothing moisturiser or aloe vera gel to calm the skin and prevent peeling.

‣ Hydrate from the inside — drink plenty of water to support healing

‣ Avoid tight clothing, hot showers, and further sun exposure until your skin recovers.

‣ Resist the urge to peel or peel at flaking skin to avoid infection and scarring.

Sunburn can be uncomfortable, but it's also your body's signal to be more mindful. Prevention is always the best strategy, so next time, slather on that SPF like your skin depends on it (because it does).

Beauty from Within

Beautiful skin isn't just about what you put on; it's also about what you nourish it with. At Birch & Wilde, our Marine Collage is a hero when it comes to supporting radiant, resilient and healthy-looking skin from the inside out.

Why is our Marine Collagen superior? It's sustainably sourced from wild-caught fish and hydrolysed into tiny peptides for optimal absorption. That means your body gets the most of of every dose. Rich in Type I collagen, the type most abundant in skin, it helps reduce the appearance of fine lines, improve skin elasticity, and support hydration and firmness over time.

If you're investing in daily SPF for protection, pair it with Marine Collagen to rebuild and revitalise from within. Because when it comes to glowing skin, both the outside and inside matter.