The SPF Edit
The SPF Edit

The SPF Edit

IT'S AN SPF SUMMER

To celebrate our biggest product launch of the year - FULL FACIAL PROTECTION, a facial sunscreen developed in collaboration with Chimi Eyewear -  we've put together The Narcyssist guide to everything SPF.

Daily sunscreen wear is the holy grail of anti-ageing skincare. Approximately 90% of visible skin ageing is caused by sun exposure and UV rays. So if you're serious about your skincare routine, sunscreen is not optional, it's foundational.
 
Read on to learn about application tips and the science behind SPF

The "Two 2" Rule: How and when to apply

There’s no such thing as over-applying when it comes to SPF, most people don’t apply nearly enough or reapply often enough.
 
But how much should you apply, and when? Here’s the “Two 2 Rule” to help you maximise protection:
 
2 finger Rule: To properly cover your whole face and neck, apply two full finger lengths of sunscreen. Watch this video from Dr. Idriss to help you visualise it.
 
2 hour rule: Dermatologists recommend reapplying sunscreen every two hours. However, there’s some nuance here: this guideline is based on spending active time outside in direct sunlight. If you’re in the office all day away from windows, you don’t need to reapply as diligently.

WTF is SPF?!

UV rays damage the DNA in skin cells, this eventually leads to wrinkles, sagging, and even skin cancer. This process happens even on cloudy days or when the UV index is low. SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures how well a sunscreen protects against UVB rays, which cause sunburn and long-term damage.

Like exfoliants, there are two types of sunscreen. Debate about which is better still exists, but it really comes down to your skin type and preference.

Physical (mineral) sunscreen: sit on the skin’s surface and reflect UV rays. They use zinc oxide and often leave a pale white cast (think 90s surfer dudes). They work immediately and can be better for acne-prone skin.
 
Chemical sunscreen: absorbs UV rays and convert them to heat. This is the most common type in stores. They feel lighter, blend easily, and don’t leave a white cast — but they need about 15 minutes after application to become fully effective.

Why you should opt for European over American Sunscreen

 

In the United States, the FDA hasn’t approved any new UV filter ingredients in decades, so American brands are limited to older filters like avobenzone. Meanwhile, European and Asian sunscreens can use more modern, highly effective UV filters that offer better, longer-lasting protection and a lighter feel on the skin.

For example, our Full Facial Protection SPF uses advanced filters such as Uvinul A Plus, Tinosorb S, or Ethylhexyl Triazone — ingredients not yet approved for use in US sunscreens sold in stores.

While we love and often recommend American brands such as Supergoop, in this letter, and they makes some of the best formulations available under FDA rules. Even the best US sunscreens can’t yet access these next-generation filters.

But do not fret American readers. You can legally buy sunscreens with these superior filters online. While we're not able to offer  the Full Facial Protection SPF in US Chimi retail locations (it's available in all other global stores) you can still get the best possible daily defense no matter where you live.

OUR STORY

Narcyss is a wellness brand for the modern citizen that is inclusive, aspirational and inspirational. We believe it’s ok to enjoy a Negroni or two at dinner and to do yoga in the morning, it’s ok to get high and go running when you come down, it’s ok to do what you can to age in a healthy way, not in an ”anti” way. The Narcyss philosophy of “a life well lived”, modern wellness and healthy ageing is a welcome perspective in the beauty industry.

Subheading

OUR STORY

Narcyss is a wellness brand for the modern citizen that is inclusive, aspirational and inspirational. We believe it’s ok to enjoy a Negroni or two at dinner and to do yoga in the morning, it’s ok to get high and go running when you come down, it’s ok to do what you can to age in a healthy way, not in an ”anti” way. The Narcyss philosophy of “a life well lived”, modern wellness and healthy ageing is a welcome perspective in the beauty industry.

MORE LIKE THIS