Why SPF deserves a place in your routine all year round – even in Ireland

It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that SPF is only for beach days and heatwaves.

But in Ireland, where summer often brings more drizzle than dazzle, it’s crucial to remember that UV rays don’t take a day off—and neither should your sun protection.

July is SPF Awareness Month, a time dedicated to reinforcing just how vital it is to shield our skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV radiation can penetrate through the clouds. That’s right, our famously grey Irish skies offer little defence when it comes to sun damage.

So, whether it’s July or January, SPF should be a non-negotiable part of your skincare ritual.

And the good news? SPF has come a long way. Forget the chalky, greasy formulas of old. Today’s sun care is innovative, elegant, and tailor-made to suit every skin type, tone, and concern.

Take NeoStrata Matrix Support SPF 30 (€76.95), for example. It’s more than just a sunscreen. It’s a firming, anti-ageing day cream that hydrates while targeting fine lines and wrinkles. With powerhouse ingredients like retinol and neoglucosamine, it’s perfect for those looking to protect and perfect in one step.

Meanwhile, the Rituals Sun Protection Milky Spray SPF 50 (€26.38) offers invisible, fast-absorbing coverage that’s gentle enough for everyday wear.

Infused with white tea, lotus flower, and vitamin E, it not only protects, it nourishes. Ideal for families, beach days, or simply that walk to the shop.

Then there’s Image Skincare’s Daily Prevention range, a true SPF wardrobe designed for modern, multi-tasking skin. Whether you’ve just had a treatment, struggle with shine, or want a makeup-skipping tint, there’s something to suit.

Smart Blend Mineral SPF 50 is calming and colour-correcting for post-peel or laser-treated skin.

Sheer Matte Moisturiser SPF 30 is oil-absorbing with a soft tint for those prone to shine. Ultra Defense Moisturiser SPF 50 is hydrating and fast-absorbing with a silky-smooth finish. Pure Mineral Tinted SPF 30 is breathable, sheer coverage with daily defence. Hydrating Mineral SPF 30 is packed with hyaluronic acid and squalane for a dewy, plumped look. Protect & Refresh Mist SPF 30 is a handbag hero for SPF top-ups on the go - even over makeup.

So, whether you’re running errands, commuting, or just curled up by a window, SPF is your silent protector.

Beyond preventing sunburn, it’s the most powerful anti-ageing tool we have and it’s accessible, adaptable, and now more wearable than ever.

In Ireland, we might not feel the sun’s strength, but our skin still does. So, this SPF Awareness Month, and every month after, find the formula that fits you and wear it with pride.

Because healthy, radiant skin starts with protection, no matter what the forecast says.