SPF in Early Spring: Not Just a Summer Habit, but a Daily Essential

A common question in March is whether SPF is really necessary already. The answer is simple: yes.

Many people don’t realize that official guidance recommends sun protection as soon as the UV index reaches 3. In Northern Europe, this can occur as early as March. UVA radiation is present all year round, even when temperatures are low. UVA radiation penetrates deep into the skin, playing a key role in premature skin aging and collagen breakdown. If you’re working on repairing your skin barrier, it’s important to prevent UV damage from undermining that process.

During spring, the sun’s intensity noticeably increases. Even on cloudy days, UVA reaches your skin. A broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB, making it an essential part of your morning routine.

Hydrating without SPF supports recovery, but leaves the skin exposed to new damage. Combining hydration with SPF in early spring is therefore not a luxury, it’s a logical step.

Transitioning to a Lighter Spring Routine

As the weather warms and skincare routines shift, many people want to switch to a lighter skincare texture in March. By doing this, it is important not to reduce your sun protection. Even when switching to lighter textures, daily SPF is key. As long as the focus remains on hydration and protection. A moisturizer that supports the skin barrier, combined with daily SPF, forms the foundation of a healthy spring routine.

For those seeking simplicity, a hybrid moisturizer with SPF can be a practical solution. By combining hydration and sun protection, it’s easier to apply consistently. And consistency is the most important factor for protecting your skin over time.

SPF for Children: Why Protection Starts in Early Spring

For children, protection in early spring is just as important. Their skin is thinner and more sensitive to UV radiation than adult skin, making it more vulnerable to sun damage. According to the National Health Service (NHS), repeated sun exposure and sunburn during childhood increases the risk of skin cancer later in life. Protecting children from an early age is therefore crucial. 

The NHS recommends the following measures from March to October:

• Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF30
  

• Apply sunscreen to exposed areas, such as the face, ears, and hands
  

• Wear protective clothing and hats for additional coverage
  

• Seek shade during peak sun hours, specifically from 11am to 3pm

Babies under six months should generally avoid direct sunlight. Shade, hats, and protective clothing offer the safest protection.

Choosing the right sunscreen for children

Sunscreens for children are designed for gentle but effective protection. As children’s skin is more sensitive and thinner than adult skin, it requires ingredients that shield against UV damage without causing irritation. Most children’s sunscreens rely on two types of UV filters: Most use two types of filters:

• Chemical filters: absorb UV radiation and convert it to harmless heat
  

• Mineral filters: reflect or scatter UV rays without penetrating the skin; ideal for babies, young children, and sensitive skin
  

When choosing sunscreen for children,it is important to look for:

• Broad-spectrum protection (UVA + UVB)
  
• SPF30 or higher
  
• Water resistance for active play and swimming
  
• Formulated for sensitive skin, free from unnecessary fragrances or colourants, and ideally dermatologically tested

Parents often find it challenging to tchatapply sunscreen, especially when they’re in a hurry, they easily forget. By turning it into a fun activity, such as connecting small dots of sunscreen on the skin or singing a “sunscreen song” together,  it can make the process much easier and more enjoyable. If your child is too young for these activities, distraction with a toy or a small treat can help keep the moment calm and relaxed.

For families, an easy-to-apply formula is key for consistent use. Our Family Sunspray was developed with this in mind: quick, even application, suitable for the whole family, and safe for babies from 6 months onwards. The spray was recently voted the winner in the ‘sunscreen’ category for the second time by The Independent, showing that convenience and reliable protection can go hand in hand.

Why March Makes a Difference

Healthy summer skin doesn’t start in June, it starts in March. By consciously choosing products that strengthen the skin barrier and provide daily UVA and UVB protection, you build a stronger foundation for the months ahead.

With the right balance of hydration and SPF, you support your skin’s natural recovery process and prepare it for sunnier days.

Give your skin what it needs in March: protection, hydration, and consistency. You’ll see the benefits not just now, but in the long term.