We asked a dermatologist what mistake all Irish women are making

Kat O'Connor

Dermatologist Dr. Isabel Haugh has shared her expert SPF advice with Her.ie

Taking care of our skin in the summer months is something we need to prioritise. As good as it feels to have the sun on our faces, we are all too aware of the damage it can cause. However, so many people are reluctant to use SPF in Ireland.

It may not be as hot as Australia or as sunny as Spain but the sun is still damaging so many people’s skin in Ireland.

There is no point in having a ten-step skincare routine if you’re not protecting that skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

According to Dr. Isabel Haugh from the Institute of Dermatologists, a concerning number of people are exposing themselves to UV light radiation.

She explained that the anti-SPF movement on social media at the moment is encouraging this harmful attitude.

“There is a concerning trend on social media suggesting that sunscreen is unnecessary or, even more alarmingly, that it causes skin cancer.

“Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Ireland so why are we not taking it more seriously?”

“This misinformation is especially dangerous for Irish women because many of us have fair skin that burns easily and tans poorly, making us particularly susceptible to sun damage and skin cancer.”

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in Ireland so why are we not taking it more seriously? The most worrying fact is that 9 out of every 10 skin cancers are caused by UV light radiation from the sun or sunbeds.

“Sunscreens protect against the three most common types of skin cancer: squamous cell carcinoma, basal cell carcinoma, and melanoma. If Irish women were to stop using sunscreen, this could lead to a significant increase in skin cancer cases and the suffering that accompanies this disease.

“The anti-SPF movement is not just misguided but harmful, and it’s crucial for Irish women to recognize the importance of practicing sun safety and using SPF. Protecting our skin isn’t just about preventing sunburn; it’s about safeguarding our health and well-being.”

So what SPF should we use?

The main SPF Dr. Haugh recommends to her patients is the EltaMD UV Clear SPF. Not only do dermatologists approve the product, but celebrities are also huge fans of it.

“It calms and protect sensitive skin prone to discolouration and breakouts like acne and rosacea. Packed with niacinamide (vitamin B3), hyaluronic acid, and lactic acid, it promotes a healthy-looking complexion.

“This lightweight, silky formula is perfect under makeup or on its own, and it comes in both tinted and untinted versions for daily wear. With 9.0% transparent zinc oxide, it offers solid UVA/UVB sun protection while combatting skin-ageing free radicals.”