May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, but here at PoolBar London, we believe suncare is a daily ritual, not just for holidays abroad. Whether you’re catching some rays in Cornwall or grabbing a coffee in Shoreditch, your skin is facing UV exposure all day, every day.
Here’s why sunscreen deserves a starring role in your morning routine, what Skin Cancer Awareness Month is really about and how to stay radiant and protected year-round.
Why Skin Cancer Awareness Month Matters
Let’s get real: 1 in 5 people will develop skin cancer by age 70. It’s the most common form of cancer, but also one of the most preventable. That’s what Skin Cancer Awareness Month is all about: education, protection, and empowering people to check their skin and wear sunscreen like their life depends on it (because it kind of does).
At PoolBar London, we’re all about turning daily suncare into a non-negotiable part of your skincare routine, without sacrificing your glow.
The Science Bit (PoolBar London Style)
Let’s break it down. Your skin is up against more than just the occasional sunburn and daily protection matters more than you think.
- UVA Rays Age You
These rays are around all year and they penetrate deeper into the skin, breaking down collagen and elastin, which leads to wrinkles, fine lines and hyperpigmentation. They’re sneaky too: they pass through clouds and even glass. So yes, your skin can be ageing while you’re sitting by a window or stuck in traffic. - UVB Rays Burn You
These are the rays that cause you to get red sunburns (and damage your skin’s DNA in the process). UVB is strongest from late morning to mid-afternoon, but even short bursts without sun protection can harm over time. - Blue Light Is Also Not Great
This one comes from your phone, laptop and other screens. While the research is still growing, blue light may contribute to premature ageing and uneven skin tone, especially with high exposure.
That’s why all of PoolBar London’s SPF formulas are broad spectrum, as they shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, And to really treat your skin, we infuse our formulas with vitamins C and E, antioxidants that help neutralise free radicals (those pesky molecules triggered by sun and pollution) and boost your skin’s natural glow. Think: protection and radiance, all in one.
But I Live in the UK, Do I Really Need SPF Every Day?
Short answer: Yes. Longer answer: absolutely, yes.
UV rays don’t care if it’s cloudy. Up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds, and your skin absorbs them every time you step outside. Even your daily walk to the tube or school run counts as sun exposure.
Think of sun damage as compound interest, but not the good kind. Every bit of unprotected exposure your skin gets (even the 10-minute walk to get coffee) builds up over time. Day by day, year by year, that damage accumulates beneath the surface, eventually showing up as fine lines, pigmentation, and a higher risk of skin cancer.
It’s not just about that one beach day; it’s the daily drip of UV rays. And in sunnier counties, that exposure hits harder and faster. Wearing sunscreen daily isn’t just about protecting your skin today; it’s an investment in how it looks and feels for years to come.
Your Daily SPF Checklist
Here’s how to keep your glow and guard your skin, wherever you are:
✔️ Apply sunscreen every morning at least 15 minutes before stepping out the door.
✔️ Use enough (about a 1/4 teaspoon for the face).
✔️ Top up every 2 hours when outdoors.
✔️ Reapply after swimming or excessive sweating.
✔️ Don’t forget ears, neck and hands.
SPF Is Self Care (and Skin Care)
Think of suncare like your favourite serum or lip balm, an everyday essential that keeps your skin healthy, hydrated and photo-ready. Our formulas are designed to fit seamlessly into your routine: lightweight and glam enough to sit pretty under makeup (or shine solo).
No white cast. Non-greasy. And yes, our products are cruelty-free and vegan, so you can do good while looking good.
Your Best Glow Starts with Daily SPF
Trends come and go, but healthy skin is always in. As summer approaches, don’t just prepare your wardrobe, prepare your skin with daily SPF that works as hard as you do. From our mineral SPF to soothing aftersun, we’ve got your suncare routine covered.
Step out confidently, whether you’re poolside, on city streets, or enjoying a sunset drink, knowing your skin is protected.
Ready to make SPF your new skincare essential?
Explore our SPF collection and protect your glow every day:
