Sun damage doesn’t always start with sunburn. In fact, even five minutes of unprotected sun exposure each day can result in premature ageing, pigmentation, and the weakening of your skin’s natural barrier. For adults aged 35 and above, whose skin is already becoming more vulnerable to collagen loss and inflammation, the summer sun isn’t just something to enjoy, it’s something to defend against.
This is where daily SPF, antioxidant-rich skincare, and post-sun repair treatments come in, and at KAST Medical Aesthetics, we’re here to guide you through it all.
Why SPF is Non-Negotiable for Healthy, Ageing Skin
What does SPF actually mean?
SPF stands for “Sun Protection Factor,” and it’s your first line of defence against the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) rays. SPF50 filters out approximately 97% of UVB rays, while SPF50 filters around 98%. That small percentage makes a big difference, especially for mature skin, which is less equipped to bounce back from environmental stress.
Think of SPF as a time-extension tool: SPF50 theoretically allows you to stay in the sun 30 times longer without burning compared to bare skin. But it only works when applied correctly and reapplied frequently.
Daily exposure counts, not just holidays
Cloudy day? Quick walk to the shops? Still need SPF. UV rays penetrate clouds, windows, and even glass car windscreens. And while you might associate sunscreen with summer holidays, the cumulative daily exposure is what leads to deep-set fine lines, pigmentation, and collagen loss.
Especially in the UK, UVA rays (the ageing ones) are present year-round and cause chronic sun damage. That means SPF is just as important in December as it is in July.
Why mature skin is more vulnerable to UV damage
As skin matures, it naturally becomes thinner and less elastic. Collagen levels decline, cellular turnover slows, and melanin distribution becomes irregular. Together, these changes make the skin more reactive to sun damage, meaning that pigmentation, dehydration, and fine lines appear faster and recover slower.
If you’ve started noticing age spots, rough texture or enlarged pores, sun damage could be the cause. Even more reason to make SPF and UV protection part of your everyday routine.
Signs of UV Damage You Might Be Ignoring
Pigmentation, wrinkles and texture changes
Not all sun damage looks like a classic sunburn. In fact, the most common signs are cumulative and subtle:
Brown patches (hyperpigmentation)
Uneven skin tone
Crepey or leathery texture
Fine lines around the eyes and mouth
Broken capillaries on the cheeks
These signs are often misattributed to “ageing” alone, but they’re really the result of long-term, unprotected UV exposure.
The difference between UVA and UVB rays
UVA = Ageing rays (penetrate deeply, cause long-term collagen breakdown and pigmentation)
UVB = Burning rays (affect the outer layer of the skin, cause visible sunburn)
A broad-spectrum SPF, like the Obagi Sun Shield range, protects against both. You want to look for “UVA/UVB” or “broad spectrum” on the label.
How to Choose the Right SPF for Your Skin
Chemical vs mineral sunscreens – which is better?
Chemical SPF absorbs UV rays and converts them into heat.
Mineral (or physical) SPF uses zinc oxide or titanium dioxide to reflect rays off the skin’s surface.
If you have sensitive skin or rosacea, mineral sunscreens are generally better tolerated. If you want a more invisible finish, chemical SPFs are often lighter under makeup. At KAST Medical Aesthetics, we offer both types through medical-grade brands like Obagi.
Medical-grade SPF vs high street – what’s the difference?
Medical-grade sunscreens (such as Obagi Sun Shield™) offer:
Higher levels of photo-stable filters
UVA/UVB coverage backed by clinical research
Formulations tailored for ageing, oily, or pigmented skin types
Unlike many cosmetic SPF products, these are designed to deliver true long-term protection and prevent dermal damage at a cellular level.
Should you reapply? (Yes – and here’s how often)
SPF should be reapplied every 2 hours when outdoors, and after swimming or sweating. Yes, even in the UK. For office days or when wearing makeup, consider SPF setting sprays or powders to top up without disturbing your look.
Building a Summer Skincare Routine That Actually Protects
Layering skincare with SPF the right way
The golden rule: SPF goes on last in your morning skincare routine (before makeup). Think of it as the umbrella that shields everything underneath.
Order of application:
Cleanser
Antioxidant serum (e.g. Obagi Professional-C Serum)
Moisturiser
SPF (mineral or chemical)
Ingredients that boost UV defence
Pairing your SPF with the right skincare amplifies its protective benefits. Look for:
Vitamin C (brightens and neutralises free radicals)
Hyaluronic acid (prevents dehydration)
Niacinamide (strengthens the barrier, reduces redness)
We especially recommend the Obagi Professional-C Serum, a medical-grade vitamin C formula that enhances UV protection when used with SPF.
Post-sun skin repair: What if you’ve already got damage?
If you’re already seeing signs of sun damage, like pigmentation, dullness or fine lines, it’s not too late to act.
At KAST Medical Aesthetics, we offer:
Chemical peels to lift damaged skin cells
Microneedling to stimulate new collagen
Obagi Nu-Derm or CRx systems to correct pigmentation
Your Summer Skin Checklist – From SPF to Aftercare
Broad-spectrum SPF (at least SPF30)
Lightweight antioxidant serum (e.g. Obagi Professional-C)
Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
Avoid peak UV hours (11am–3pm)
Hydration (inside and out)
After-sun repair products (Aloe, ceramides, vitamin C)
Why We Recommend Obagi SPF and Antioxidants at KAST
Obagi Sun Shield Broad Spectrum SPF50 is lightweight, non-comedogenic and available in both matte and tinted formulas, perfect for layering with makeup or wearing alone. Pair it with Obagi’s Professional-C Serum for enhanced environmental defence and brighter, healthier-looking skin.
At KAST Medical Aesthetics, we curate your skincare based on individual skin type, lifestyle and seasonal changes, because not all SPF is created equal, and not all skin ages the same.
Explore more about Obagi skincare at KAST
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can sun damage be repaired with skincare?
Yes. With consistent use of antioxidant-rich serums (like vitamin C), prescription-strength retinoids, and pigment-regulating systems like Obagi Nu-Derm, you can significantly improve visible sun damage.
What is the best sunscreen for ageing skin UK?
Medical-grade SPF50 with UVA/UVB protection, such as Obagi Sun Shield, is ideal for ageing skin. It protects delicate skin structures while preventing further pigmentation.
Is SPF 50 too much for everyday use?
Not at all. SPF50 provides enhanced protection and is particularly recommended for mature, fair or pigmented skin types.
How do I reverse sun damage on my face?
Combine daily SPF, antioxidant-rich skincare, and corrective treatments like microneedling, peels, and Obagi protocols. Consistency is key.
Should I wear sunscreen indoors?
Yes, especially if you sit near windows. UVA rays can penetrate glass and contribute to skin ageing even indoors.
Book Your Summer Skin Consultation
Your skin deserves protection, restoration and expert guidance. At KAST Medical Aesthetics, our team will assess your current routine and recommend a customised plan using medical-grade SPF and repair protocols.
📍 Visit us at Floor 1, 2 Bradwall Road, Sandbach, Cheshire, CW11 1GB
📞 Call 01270 762330
📧 theteam@kastaesthetics.co.uk
🌐 https://kastaesthetics.co.uk