Why is it that we typically think of our sun protection as only applying in the morning and not as ongoing throughout the day? For people living in places like Dubai or Abu Dhabi, finding a sun care product including the best sunscreen in UAE is not just about avoiding a temporary sunburn; it is about maintaining the health of our skin while living in one of the highest-rated UV environments on earth. The sun in these locations does not take vacations and therefore our defences should not take vacations either.
Essentially, you should think about a "day in the sun" as beginning when you approach any window rather than just when you go to the beach. For those of us that are preparing to spend time outdoors, there’s a need to shift our mindset. Instead of reactively responding to damage, we should proactively create a layered barrier of defence against UV exposure. At SunKiss, this proactive approach to sun protection is central to how we guide daily skincare habits.
The Morning Layer: Setting the Foundation
As we understand this now, the biggest mistake people make is applying sunscreen right before they walk out the door. Your skin needs time to "grip" the product. For your face, which bears the brunt of environmental stress, you need a high-protection, stable base.
A high-quality broad spectrum sunscreen for the face should be your final skincare step every single morning. If you are spending your day in the city, using an SPF 50 for daily use in the UAE is the gold standard. Products like the Age Defying Daily Face Protection SPF 50 are designed specifically for this; they don't just block rays but act as a barrier against the heat-induced aging that is so common in the region.
The Body Barrier: Choosing Your Shield
At this stage, the decision is to determine the blend of protection and effectiveness against UV rays versus form & usability, especially if going out with your children for the day (and trying to maintain a daily routine). Ideally, the safest choice would be an immediate acting, organic (eco friendly) product.
In most cases, minimum (eco friendly sunscreen SPF 30 or higher) on the Body; however, if you would prefer a more convenient (lighter) approach, using a Spray-On Water Resistant (SPF 30) is a simple means to provide adequate coverage over those hard-to-reach places (Backs and Shoulders) while on the go. There is a Guide available (invisible vs Lotion) explaining the differences between the two when it comes to your respective lifestyle choices.
Mid-Day Discipline: The Art of Reapplication
In simple terms, sunscreen is not a "set it and forget it" product. The heat in the UAE causes us to sweat, and salt water or pool chlorine breaks down the protective film on your skin.
If you are at the beach, SPF reapplication for swimming should happen every two hours, or immediately after you dry off with a towel. This is where a reliable "all-rounder" comes in handy. The SunKiss Unscented SPF 30 is a perfect companion for this because it’s a reef safe sunscreen for beach days, meaning you aren't leaving behind chemicals that harm the local marine life while you protect your own skin.
Beyond the Bottle: Year-Round Sun Protection Tips
Now we have come to the realization that cream is only one part of the equation. Truly effective sun care involves a "multi-modal" approach.
- Be Conscious of the Sun's UV Rays - The hours between 11 am and 4 pm are when the sun's rays are most extreme (UV), and they are the times when you should really try to avoid sunlight as much as possible.
- Barrier Methods: Wide-brimmed hats, UV rated sunglasses and other barrier methods are a great protection from the sun's harmful rays that will not wash off.
- Know Your Region: While we focus on the UAE, the intensity remains similar across the border; you can check our notes on the best sunscreen in Saudi Arabia for regional comparisons.
As we understand this now, year round sun protection tips aren't just for the summer. During the winter, while the sun may feel cooler in the Middle Eastern region, UV rays continue to be a risk factor.
The Evening Recovery: Closing the Loop
As important as your daytime skincare is, it is as important to do the same after the sun sets. Even if you protect your skin properly during the day, your skin may still feel dry, and tight from the heat.
Your evening skincare should include treatments that cool down the internal temperature of the skin. After sun soothing gels will help pull out any excess heat, and help to minimize the inflammation resulting in peeling. If you follow a proper after-sun regimen, your skin will be restored to its natural glow rather than turning dull and leathery.
A Final Perspective
Do you feel protected from sunburn when you finish your outdoor activities? Or do you find relief when the day is over and you step indoors?
To put it simply, to practice proper sun protection means respect for both our planet and respect for our body. When you create a sun care routine with a high-quality sunscreen spray, you'll do more than just prevent yourself from being burned, but also enjoy an outdoor lifestyle in the UAE for many years to come.
Lastly, the greatest sunscreen routine is the one that you can consistently follow. So look for sunscreen products that top ten times better than traditional sunscreens. Place them in your purse/carry-on and establish a routine to apply sunscreen often.
