The Truth About SPF: Why Sun Protection is a Year-Round Essential

SPF isn't just for beach days. While many of us reserve sun protection for heatwaves and holidays, the truth is your skin is exposed to harmful UV rays all year round even on cloudy, rainy UK days. At Velvet Symphony, our mission is to redefine beauty with clean, conscious, and luxurious vegan skincare. That means understanding not just what goes into our bottles, but what your skin faces every day. 

Why You Need SPF in the UK (Yes, Even in Winter) 

In the UK, we might not feel the sun's intensity as often as in warmer climates, but UV radiation is still at play. Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate cloud cover, and UVA rays  the ones responsible for ageing and long-term skin damage remain consistent all year. 

Daily SPF use helps to:  

Prevent premature ageing, fine lines, and pigmentation 

Reduce your risk of skin cancer 

Maintain even skin tone and smooth texture 

Whether you're commuting, walking the dog, or sitting by a window, your skin is quietly affected by the sun. 

UVA vs UVB: What’s the Difference? 

Understanding the types of ultraviolet rays is key to choosing the right sun protection: 

UVA rays: These penetrate deep into the dermis, causing premature ageing and long-term damage. 

UVB rays: These affect the outer layer and are the primary cause of sunburn. 

A broad-spectrum SPF protects you from both, which is why Velvet Symphony’s Radiance Collagen Moisturiser with SPF 30 is designed for daily wear. 

The Top 3 SPF Myths: Debunked 

“I only need SPF when it's sunny.” Wrong. UV rays are still active even when it’s overcast. 

“My makeup has SPF, so I’m covered.” Makeup with SPF is not enough. You'd need to apply multiple layers to get proper protection. 

“I have darker skin, so I don’t need SPF.” While melanin offers some natural protection, it's not enough to prevent sun damage or hyperpigmentation. 

How to Incorporate SPF Into Your Routine 

SPF should be the final step in your morning skincare ritual after cleansing, serums, and moisturisers. Reapply throughout the day if you're spending time outdoors. 

Try layering your skincare with products that hydrate, protect and nourish  like our Serum from the Heavens - Anti-Ageing Rose Gold Oil. 

Final Thoughts: Beauty That Protects and Performs 

SPF is self-care. It's a commitment to future you  radiant, confident, and protected. At Velvet Symphony, we believe beauty should be intelligent, intentional, and inclusive. That’s why our formulas are vegan, cruelty-free, and designed with both performance and prevention in mind. 

So whether it’s a glowing summer day or a grey January morning, let your skincare routine include sun care. 

Explore our sun-smart skincare here and make SPF a non-negotiable part of your glow.