Latest news with #SophieMomen
Business Mayor
16-05-2025
- Health
- Business Mayor
Are expensive SPF products worth the money? Experts reveal all
Sign up to our free Living Well email for advice on living a happier, healthier and longer life Live your life healthier and happier with our free weekly Living Well newsletter As the desire to protect our skin from the sun intensifies, many are drawn to the allure of high-end sunscreens. With their promises of silky textures and chic packaging – it can be tempting to blow the budget. But do these luxury SPFs offer superior protection, or are consumers simply swayed by sophisticated marketing? Dermatologists and sun care experts are now weighing in on whether investing in premium sunscreen is worth it. Here's what to look for when prioritising performance over prestige. More expensive SPFs tend to feel better on the skin (PA) Function vs. finish It's no question that affordable SPFs are just as effective at protecting your skin from the sun as high-end ones. 'Affordable SPFs from trusted brands can offer excellent protection and meet the same safety standards as high-end options,' says consultant dermatologist at the Cadogan Clinic, Dr Sophie Momen. 'Pricier products may offer more luxurious textures, faster absorption or finishes that feel better on the skin, but in many cases, you're just paying for branding and marketing, rather than superior protection.' However, the formula and level of protection is incredibly important. Premium products often boast more advanced UVA protection and skincare actives – and may avoid cheaper chemical filters linked to health concerns. 'There is also a possibility that the price can reflect the type of UV filters used in a formula to protect you,' explains Ultrasun's Abi Cleeve, founder of SkinSense. Read More Keir Starmer has started to sound like Boris Johnson on Brexit Ingredients that justify the investment Not all SPFs are created equal – and some of the most worthwhile differences lie beneath the surface. According to Momen, 'An effective SPF should be broad-spectrum, offering both UVB (for burning) and UVA (for ageing) protection and it should be SPF 50, especially if you're outdoors frequently, have pigmentation issues, or are using active skincare ingredients.' She also recommends formulas with antioxidants like vitamin E or niacinamide, water resistance and non-comedogenic features for acne-prone skin. 'High UVB protection – the SPF number – over 90% UVA filters, additional skincare actives for a 'one and done' in your skincare routine and a formula that sits well on the skin [can justify the cost]' says Cleeve. 'It needs to be effective, comfortable to wear and support your overall wellbeing.' (Amazon/PA) Eucerin Sun Actinic Control SPF100 Fluid Protezione Cheratosi Attinica, £19.99, Amazon (Ultrasun/PA) Ultrasun Extreme SPF50+, £24 (Look Fantastic/PA) Garnier BHA + Niacinamide Daily UV, £13, Look Fantastic How to decode the label A £12 high-street SPF 50 and a £60 luxury equivalent might look similar, but are they really offering the same thing? Technically, yes – and no. 'The SPF number measures UVB protection and must meet strict standards, regardless of the price,' says Momen. 'However, luxury brands may use newer or more photostable filters that provide better UVA protection, which is important for preventing pigmentation and premature ageing.' On a practical note, you should be looking for a 90% UVA filter or above – this is harder to find in affordable SPFs. 'Also consider how long the product protects you, and what the water resistance and photostability will be,' says Cleeve. 'A cheaper alternative may end up costing you more if you need to use more of it.' But don't let the beauty jargon confuse you. There are ways to keep the decoding simple. 'Check for the SPF rating to ensure protection against UVB rays,' says Momen. 'For UVA protection […] look for a UVA symbol in a circle or a five-star UVA rating.' Cleeve recommends going even further. 'For environmental considerations look for the BASF EcoSun pass. Look for clarity on the percentage of UVA filter and look for those that state they are allergy tested.' (Look Fantastic/PA) Ultra Violette Extreme Screen Hydrating Body & Hand Skinscreen SPF 50+, £12, Look Fantastic The mistakes you might be making Even the best SPF can't save you if it's not used correctly. Both experts cite the same major misstep: underestimating your skin's needs. 'Using low-SPF products – like SPF 15 – is a key mistake,' warns Momen. 'Lab testing assumes a much thicker application than most people use, so lower SPFs offer significantly less protection. Always opt for SPF 30–50 – ideally 50!' Solely relying on the SPF rating as opposed to UVA and UVB protection is also a common oversight. 'Not checking the level of UVA protection alongside choosing their UVB protection [is a major mistake]' explains Cleeve. She also advises ditching the 'holiday scent,' as fragranced SPFs can cause unnecessary sensitivity during sun exposure. If you're dealing with sensitive skin, melasma, or acne, your SPF choice matters even more. Read More How Enterprise Companies Are Pitching Generative AI to Marketers 'For oily or acne-prone skin, non-comedogenic formulas are essential to avoid breakouts,' says Momen. 'People with melasma or pigmentation issues benefit from tinted sunscreens with strong UVA protection, as these help block visible light too.' Those with sensitive skin, rosacea, or eczema may benefit from higher-end, hypoallergenic options, says Cleeve, particularly those with mineral-only filters. (MooGoo/PA) MooGoo Tinted SPF 40 Face Cream, £12.50 The bottom line So, is splashing out really worth it? Well, if your budget allows for a luxurious, high-performing sunscreen that feels like a dream to wear – go for it. But if you're reaching for a £10 bottle from a trusted brand with broad-spectrum protection and SPF 50, you're still doing your skin a massive favour. The simple golden rule is to use it generously. Reapply. And whatever the price point, find a formula that fits your lifestyle.
The Independent
05-02-2025
- Health
- The Independent
How your workout routine affects your skin
If you're sticking to a New Years resolution of becoming more active, there are several things to consider beyond the workout. Scheduling exercise around work, increased clothes washes and not to mention how it interferes with your hair wash routine – introducing more physical activity can be bit of an admin nightmare. But the benefits certainly outweigh the negatives – from better cardio health to rosy, radiant skin. But balancing a good skincare routine alongside your workout is imperative for getting that healthy looking glow. So, dermatologists and skincare experts explain how working out actually affects your skin, and their top tips for maintaining a fresh-faced complexion. How does regular exercise impact your skin? Depending on the nature of your workout, regular exercise has both positive and negative impacts on this skin. 'Regular exercise promotes healthy skin by increasing blood circulation, which delivers oxygen and essential nutrients to skin cells,' explains dermatologist Dr Sophie Momen at the Cadogan Clinic. 'This enhanced circulation supports cell regeneration and collagen production, contributing to a more youthful appearance. Exercise also helps regulate stress hormones such as cortisol, which can reduce inflammation and breakouts.' Physical activity can also stimulate lymphatic drainage, reducing puffiness and fluid retention. However, over-exercising without proper skincare can potentially have negative effects, such as increased oxidative stress, premature sagging or skin irritation from sweat. How sweat affects the skin Getting on a good sweat during a workout can feel great, as sweat contains toxins that you're pumping out of your system. However, sweating itself does not detoxify the skin. 'The primary detoxification organs are the liver and kidneys, however sweating can help clear out impurities from the pores by flushing out dirt, oil and bacteria, which may contribute to a clearer complexion,' says Momen. Despite containing toxins, sweating can be good for your skin. 'Sweat however does help to regulate body temperature which prevents overheating, which can reduce inflammation and puffiness,' says cellular biochemist and SEABODY founder, Dr Helena McMahon. When it comes to sweat and breakouts, it's important to understand how acne is actually caused. 'Sweating itself doesn't cause acne, but leaving sweat on your skin for too long can create an environment where bacteria can thrive, leading to breakouts,' explains skin expert and founder of RE Skin Clinic, Rebecca Elsdon. 'Friction from tight workout clothing can also trigger acne mechanica. To prevent this, always cleanse your skin post-workout with a gentle, pH-balanced cleanser.' How exercise affects ageing skin and collagen production While excessive, high intensity exercise can cause skin to sag, exercise largely slows down the signs of ageing. 'Exercise can slow skin ageing by improving circulation and oxygenation, which support collagen production and cell renewal,' says Momen. 'Collagen is essential for maintaining skin's elasticity and firmness, helping to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. 'Regular physical activity also helps regulate cortisol levels, which can otherwise contribute to collagen breakdown and premature ageing.' However, if you're exercising outside, you should be wary about environmental factors. 'Prolonged exposure to UV rays during outdoor exercise can accelerate ageing, making it essential to wear sunscreen and maintain a suitable skincare routine,' says Momen. The ideal skincare routine for workouts While you may want to keep your skin as clean as possible, over-cleansing the skin or using harsh ingredients followed by a sweaty workout can irritate and cause damage to your skin barrier. While removing any make-up before your workout is essential, 'the ideal skin routine for exercise starts during the workout itself,' explains Harley Street skin expert and aesthetics doctor, Dr Ed Robinson. 'Avoid touching your face throughout where dirty gym equipment and bacteria are transferred to your face.' Post-workout, the experts suggest a gentle cleanser. 'Post-workout skincare should include gentle, hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, niacinamide and aloe vera to soothe the skin and prevent irritation,' says Momen. 'Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic formulations are ideal to maintain a healthy post-exercise skincare routine.' Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF50, £11.50, Cult Beauty SEABODY Hydrogel Mask Cleanser, £44 Absolute Collagen Deep Lift Collagen Boosting Day Cream, £45 Specific ingredients to look for (and avoid) in post-workout skincare When curating the perfect skincare bundle for your gym bag, there are certain ingredients to incorporate as well as some to avoid. 'Avoid anti-ageing products, like vitamin C, retinol, AHA acids and certainly do not exfoliate directly after, as this will just irritate their skin,' says medical director of Cosmedics Skin Clinics, Dr Ross Perry. You should look out for moisturisers that are high in occlusives, as these help seal in moisture. 'Moisturisers have three categories of ingredients,' explains dermal therapist Joanna Fleming. 'These are humectants, emollients and occlusives. 'Humectants, such as hyaluronic acid, draw moisture into the skin. Emollients, like ceramides, help keep the skin smooth and prevent moisture loss. Then occlusives, like shea butter, help seal in moisture,' says Fleming. 'Use a decent moisturiser that helps lock in moisture, which you'll be low on after exercising, as we lose a lot of water through our skin,' says Robinson.
