THE SPF WARDROBE: WHY YEAR-ROUND SUN PROTECTION MATTERS WITH DR EJIKEME

At Cult Beauty, we’ve always believed that SPF is far more than a seasonal essential — it’s a year-round, 365-day non-negotiable for maintaining long-term skin health. And much like the foundations of a well-considered wardrobe, the pieces you rely on most should be timeless, effortless and above all, dependable.

Enter: The SPF Wardrobe. An expert curation of high-performance, truly essential formulas (no tints, no hybrids, no add-ons). These are the SPFs that slot seamlessly into your routine, working across every skin type, every climate and every moment of your day. Think of them as your skincare equivalents to the crisp white tee, the hard-working blazer, and wear-with-anything denim.

In partnership with leading Consultant Physician and Skin Specialist, Dr. Ejikeme, we turn our attention to everything SPF — from the science behind daily defence to unravelling common suncare myths, and ultimately, how to build a ritual that feels simple, dependable and entirely your own.

Because when it comes to SPF, it’s all about reliable formulations that earn their place in your routine every single day.

In Conversation With Dr. Ejikeme

What happens to your skin if it’s exposed to too much UV light without protection?

UV exposure leads to DNA damage within skin cells, increases oxidative stress and accelerates collagen breakdown. Over time, this contributes to uneven pigmentation, loss of elasticity and accelerated skin ageing.

How does daily SPF support long-term skin health and longevity?

Daily SPF helps reduce cumulative UV damage. It supports collagen preservation, maintains more even skin tone and reduces the risk of long-term structural changes in the skin. It also reduces the risk of certain skin cancers.

What’s the difference between UVA and UVB rays, and why does broad-spectrum protection matter year-round?

UVB is primarily responsible for sunburn, while UVA penetrates more deeply and is linked to photoageing and pigmentation. Both are present year-round, so broad-spectrum protection is essential regardless of season.

What are some common misconceptions you frequently see around sunscreen use?

A common misconception is that SPF is only needed in summer or on holiday. Another is that darker skin tones do not require daily sunscreen, which is not the case.

How can different skin types choose a sunscreen that suits their needs and encourages consistent use?

Texture and finish are key. Oily skin may prefer lightweight fluids or gels, while drier skin may need a more hydrating cream. For sensitive skin, fragrance-free formulations are often better tolerated. Consistency improves when the product fits seamlessly into a daily routine.

Do you need different sunscreens for your face and body?

The lips, eye area and scalp often benefit from targeted formulations designed for those areas. Body sunscreens may be heavier, while facial SPFs are typically formulated to sit well under skincare and makeup.

What makes a sunscreen truly essential versus a cosmetic add-on?

An essential sunscreen provides reliable broad-spectrum protection, is well-tolerated and is used consistently. Cosmetic benefits, such as glow or tint, are secondary to protection and compliance.