As we transition into Autumn with cooler temperatures and shorter days, it’s easy to forget about sunscreen. After all, the summer sun is behind us, and the crisp, refreshing air can make it feel like the dangers of UV rays are no longer a concern. But even as the golden leaves fall, the sun's harmful rays remain present, making SPF a must-have in your skincare routine, year-round.

Here we answer some of the most frequently asked questions surrounding the importance of applying SPF during the colder seasons to protect your skin from lasting damage.

Are UV rays as strong in cooler months?

Though the sun may feel weaker during autumn, harmful UV rays are a year-round problem. While UVB rays, which cause sunburn, are less intense in cooler months, UVA rays remain constant throughout the year. These UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin causing premature ageing and wrinkles and increasing the risk of long-term damage.

In autumn, cloudy skies often lead us to believe that sunscreen isn’t necessary. However, up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can pass through clouds. Whether you’re out running errands or simply going for a stroll in the crisp air, unprotected skin is still vulnerable to UV damage.

Ultrasun’s innovative, all-in-one Face Formulas applied as your everyday moisturiser deliver long-lasting, high-level, broad-spectrum protection with premium skincare actives in fast-absorbing, lightweight textures you’ll love to wear every single day!

Can SPF prevent premature ageing and hyperpigmentation?

If you’re working to maintain a youthful complexion or tackle skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, SPF is non-negotiable. UV rays are one of the primary causes of premature ageing, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and loss of skin elasticity. Even in autumn, these rays are at work, contributing to collagen breakdown and the development of pigmentation over time.

If you’re using products to treat uneven skin tone, dark spots, or melasma, regular sunscreen application prevents these areas from becoming darker. In fact, without SPF, all the brightening serums and treatments in the world may not give you the desired results if UV exposure continues to trigger pigmentation, undoing all your hard work!

Our wide range of Anti-pigmentation formulations target existing pigmentation whilst future-proofing your skin from the appearance of further damage.

Are you using intense skincare actives?

Autumn is often a time when people turn to more intensive skincare treatments to repair summer damage. Exfoliants, retinoids, and peels become popular for renewing the skin and removing dead cells. However, these products also make the skin more sensitive and vulnerable to sunlight.

Without sun protection, these active ingredients could cause a skin reaction, making your skin more prone to irritation, redness, and an increase in dark patches. SPF acts as a protective layer, ensuring that your treatments work effectively without causing further sun damage.

Don’t be fooled, autumn sun can be deceptive!

Whilst the sun may not feel as intense as it does during summer, it can still be just as harmful. In fact, many people experience “sneaky” sun damage in autumn, precisely because they underestimate the sun’s strength during the cooler months.

UV exposure is also more common than you think, especially when you consider that it can penetrate glass. Whether you’re driving or working near a window, you’re still receiving UV radiation. So, even on the days when you stay indoors, applying SPF should still be part of your morning routine.

Can SPF support your skin’s barrier function?

Autumn brings more than just cooler temperatures. It also introduces lower humidity and increased wind, which can strip moisture from your skin and leave it dry and vulnerable. Ultrasun not only protects against UV rays but shields against environmental stresses with trusted skincare actives.

Ultrasun’s Face Formulas nourish your skin with skincare actives including revolutionary Ectoin® the anti-stress molecule that surrounds the skin cells in hydration and soothes stressed skin whilst antioxidant complex GSP-T protects from harsh winter environmental stresses and helps to fight free radicals.

For the ultimate all-in-one solution, choose our Tinted Face Formulations that deliver light coverage to even skin tone whilst keeping your skin hydrated and protected.

Do you know how important is to apply SPF 365 days a year?

While much of the conversation around SPF revolves around preventing premature ageing and cosmetic damage, the most crucial reason to wear sunscreen year-round is to reduce the risk of long-term damage including melanomas. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, and the risk doesn’t diminish with cooler temperatures. Even incidental sun exposure, like walking your dog, running errands, or sitting by a window, adds up over time.

By making SPF a daily habit, you reduce your cumulative UV exposure, significantly lowering your risk of developing long-term damage over time.

What makes Ultrasun SPF unique?

Ultrasun uses patented Lamellar technology to provide long-lasting, high-level, water-resistant protection. Lamellar gel structures have a high affinity to the natural structure of the skin which allows them to bind and work below the skin’s surface, mimicking the skin’s structure to avoid irritation. Our sun protection is anchored in the stratum corneum and delivers long-lasting protection whilst strengthening the skin barrier. This allows the product to bind with the skin in a way that is unique to our lamellar formulation. 

Ultrasun formulas are fast absorbing, grease-free and leave zero residue making them comfortable to wear all year round.

Conclusion: SPF is a year-round essential

The sun may feel more forgiving in autumn, but that doesn’t mean its rays are any less damaging. UVA rays, environmental stressors, and the need for long-term skin protection make SPF just as important in autumn and winter as during warmer months. By including sunscreen in your daily regime, you can prevent premature ageing, maintain a more even skin tone, and significantly lower your risk of long-term damage, whilst keeping your skin looking fresh and healthy.

So, as you swap out your summer wardrobe for cosy sweaters and scarves, don’t leave your sunscreen behind. Your skin will thank you for it, today and for years to come.