SUN CARE

Sun Care FAQs

Find out more about skincare essential, sun protection, and don't forget to apply every day to prevent premature ageing and sun damage.

What are the benefits of using a sunscreen?

Beyond the obvious benefit of helping to prevent sunburn, sunscreens also help prevent damage from UVA and UVB rays which can cause damage and early signs ageing. In addition to dark spots and dullness, damage from the sun can also cause rough texture and fine lines and wrinkles.

How does sunscreen work?

Sunscreens contain active ingredients that help to protect the skin from ultraviolet rays that come from the sun. UVA rays contribute to premature skin ageing, UVB rays cause burning and both types can lead to skin cancer. A broad-spectrum sunscreen will protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen uses chemical or physical active ingredients that work to reflect or absorb the dangerous sun's rays.

Why should you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen?

Broad-spectrum sunscreens help protect skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays penetrate the top layer of the skin and are the main cause of damage and sunburn. UVA rays penetrate below skin's surface layer and can cause long-term damage that may result in wrinkles, dark spots and rough texture. Using a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection help protect skin from both types of rays.

What is a mineral sunscreen?

Mineral sunscreens are formulated with an ingredient like Titanium Dioxide and help protect skin by reflecting the sun's rays. See our Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Mineral Sunscreen.

Should you wear sunscreen every day?

The sun emits UV rays year-round so applying daily sunscreen is essential. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun's rays can penetrate skin.

When should you apply sunscreen?

Always follow the directions on your formula to help protect your skin. As a basic guideline apply the sunscreen product before sun exposure, re-apply frequently to maintain protection, especially after perspiring, swimming or toweling.

Should you apply sunscreen before or after your moisturiser?

A daily sunscreen should be the very last step in your skincare routine. Applying a moisturiser after your sunscreen could even alter its properties and affect its efficacy. After you smooth on your moisturiser, apply sunscreen about 15 minutes before going outside and allow it to fully absorb. You can also use a moisturiser with SPF to hydrate and defend skin in one easy step.

What are the benefits of using a sunscreen with pollution protection?

UV rays are not the only environmental aggressors that skin needs protection from. Look for a sunscreen with pollution protection, like our Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 PA++++ to help defend skin from skin-damaging free radicals.

What are the best types of sunscreens for oily and blemish-prone skin?

If your skin is oily or blemish-prone, you may be tempted to skip a step in your skincare routine but sunscreen is a daily essential for all skin types. Look for a non-comedogenic formula (meaning it won't clog pores) or a mineral sunscreen to help defend skin without causing breakouts. Read our tips on finding the Best Sunscreen for Your Skin Type.

What is SPF?

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and it is a measure of how well sunscreen will protect skin from UVB rays. A higher SPF factor means you can spend longer in the sun without getting burnt, as the UVB filters will protect you. UVA light is the type that causes fine lines and wrinkles, you'll need a sunscreen labelled broad spectrum to protect from both. Our sunscreens all provide broad spectrum protection.

What SPF should I use?

Our bestselling Kiehl's Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 PA++++ is a lightweight daily use SPF that is suitable for all skin types. It helps to protect skin from environmental aggressors including UVA/UVB rays and pollution, which can cause premature ageing. For those with oily skin, or if you prefer a gel texture, try our Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF 50 PA++++.

How often should I reapply sunscreen?

Generally, sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours. Make sure you choose a sun protection product that offers broad spectrum protection as this means your skin will be protected from both UVA and UVB rays. Try our daily use lightweight Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 or if you prefer a gel texture, try Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF 50.

How long does sun cream last?

Sun cream in the UK has a small icon shaped like an open jar printed on it here is where you will find the expiry date - it's usually 12 months from opening. Check yours when you purchase and make a note on the date. Sun cream will degrade and become less effective if it's used after the expiry.

Do moisturisers with SPF work?

Moisturisers that contain broad spectrum SPF, such as our Super Multi-Corrective Cream SPF 30 will defend skin from UV rays. It's important to reapply all types of sunscreen every two hours, so you may want to add our bestselling Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 PA++++ to your bag if you are out and about.

Do Kiehl's moisturisers have SPF?

We offer three moisturisers which contain SPF: our Super Multi-Corrective Cream, Ultra Facial Cream SPF 30 and Facial Fuel Moisture Treatment for Men SPF 19. You can also follow any moisturiser with our dedicated daily SPF for broad spectrum protection that suits your skin type. Choose our best selling Ultra Light Daily UV Defense SPF 50 PA++++ or for those with oily skin, try our gel textured Ultra Light Daily UV Defense Aqua Gel SPF 50 PA++++.