Moisturiser, with or spf or not? Separate facial sunscreen or not? I'm confused

[Suddengeekgirl]

I've been using a moisturiser with an spf for years. Think they've always been spf 15.

I'm now wondering if I should be using a separate facial sunscreen instead.

I've noticed some pigmentation marks around my eyes, I'm guessing it's an age thing (I'm 33) but is there something I can do to prevent any more?

I sort of assumed spf moisturiser was fine and to be honest I am never going to repeatedly apply sunscreen throughout the day unless it is particularly sunny.

What should I be doing? Have I been getting it wrong all this time?

SPF 15 is a bit low. Most of us won't apply it thick enough to get the stated SPF and don't reapply during the day. So your SPF 15 is probably only an 8-10 at the start of the day and a 1-2 by the end.

You need SPF 30 at least. While SPF 50 isn't really that much better than 30, given that you probably aren't applying it as a 50, some people (including me) opt for it as hopefully you are still getting a higher value.

Whether you feel you need a separate moisturiser to your SPF, or buy an SPF that claims to be moisturising, or just a sun protection cream is really up to you and your preference. I have oily skin and am too lazy to use two products so just use sun protection, currently Sunsense Daily Face SPF 50. I also can't be arsed to reapply during the day routinely although will on holiday/if I am out in the sun a lot.

In terms of preventing more pigmentation, using a higher SPF daily is the most important thing you can do. You also need to ensure your sun protection covers UVA as well as UVB - SPF only refers to UVB. UVA protection may be marked as 'broad spectrum' or a UVA in a circle symbol, or a star system (5 stars being the best) or PA+++. Just to be confusing.

I use both as I am so pale. I burn incredibly easily and quickly and the slightest hint of sun brings out my freckles. My moisturiser is SPF 15 and I use factor 50 on top for both face and body. I have managed to avoid burning so far this year.