A GP and skin specialist has issued a compelling recommendation for everyone to incorporate one essential product into their daily routine throughout the entire year. This simple habit, she asserts, can significantly reduce visible signs of ageing and potentially save individuals thousands of pounds on elaborate skincare regimens.
The Holy Grail of Skincare
In an era where the skincare market bombards consumers with countless serums, creams, and treatments promising youthful skin, Doctor Raj Arora offers a refreshingly straightforward solution. Through a widely shared TikTok video, Dr. Arora emphasised that a single, consistently used product can deliver profound benefits for skin health and appearance.
Why Sunscreen is Non-Negotiable
The product in question is sunscreen. Dr. Arora advocates for daily application, even during the winter months, citing its dual protective role. Not only does it shield the skin from harmful UVA and UVB radiation emitted by the sun, but it also offers defence against blue light exposure from digital devices like phones and computers.
"Honestly, it's going to save you so much money if you just protect your skin with a really good sunscreen," Dr. Arora explained. She outlined key criteria for an effective sunscreen, including a broad-spectrum formula that protects against UVA and UVB, coverage for blue light and infrared radiation, and a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50+ or at least 30.
Long-Term Health and Financial Benefits
The benefits of daily sunscreen use extend far beyond cosmetic improvements. Dr. Arora highlighted that this practice helps reduce sun damage, pigmentation issues, and overall skin damage. Crucially, it also lowers the risk of developing skin cancers.
For those concerned with wrinkles and other ageing signs, consistent sunscreen application can prevent the need for expensive corrective procedures. "You're going to save thousands and thousands on skincare products if you just wear a really good sunscreen," she added, encouraging everyone to start this protective habit immediately, regardless of their current routine.
Official Guidance on Sunscreen Use
The NHS supports the importance of sunscreen, recommending its use even on cloudy days, with particular emphasis during summer months when the sun is strongest. Sunburn remains a significant risk factor for skin cancer and can occur even when skies are overcast.
How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly
When selecting and using sunscreen, the NHS provides clear guidelines:
- Choose a product with an SPF of at least 30 for UVB protection
- Ensure it offers at least 4-star UVA protection
- Apply generously—most adults require 6-8 teaspoons to cover their entire body
- Reapply every two hours on sunny days, after swimming, towel drying, or sweating
Proper application is vital, as applying too thinly can drastically reduce the level of protection offered. Even water-resistant formulas require reapplication after water exposure to maintain their effectiveness.
This expert advice underscores that a simple, cost-effective daily habit can provide comprehensive skin protection, promote long-term health, and offer substantial savings compared to complex skincare alternatives.
