We know what it feels like to be acutely aware of the sun, and the importance of caring for your skin not just on sunny days, but all year round.

Lauren's journey: sun safety after cancer treatment

Our co-founder, Lauren, underwent months of intensive treatment for leukaemia which left her skin very sensitive, and she still needs to be very careful in the sun - even many years after her life-saving stem cell transplant from her sister, Sarah.

You'll often find Lauren with a wide-primmed hat under a cooling parasol on the hottest days of the year. But it's not only when the sky is blue and the sun is shining that we need to be aware of caring for our skin.

Sun Awareness Week: why it matters 

Sun Awareness Week, typically held in May, is a vital national campaign encouraging us all to prioritise daily sun protection and be more mindful of our skin health. Supported by leading organisations, including the British Association of Dermatologists, it highlights the risks of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and promotes easy, practical habits to keep our skin safe.

Throughout the week, the spotlight is placed on the importance of regular sunscreen use, seeking shade during peak sun hours, wearing protective clothing, and checking your skin regularly for any changes. These simple steps can make all the difference in helping to prevent sun damage and maintain your skin’s health over the long term.

At By Sarah, we believe that protecting your skin should feel like an empowering act of self-care. This Sun Awareness Week, we’re proud to share expert advice and skin-friendly solutions designed to help you stay safe and feel confident – all while embracing the sunshine with care.

Sun safety tips from dermatologists

As leaders in dermatological care and skin health, the British Association of Dermatologists recommend the following tips:

1. Apply Sunscreen Correctly. When applying sunscreen, make sure to use a sufficient amount and reapply it regularly. Aim for at least two milligrams of sunscreen per square centimetre of skin and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if swimming or sweating.

2. Seek Shade During Peak Hours. Avoid direct sunlight between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV radiation is at its strongest. Seek shade under trees, umbrellas, or awnings to minimise your exposure to harmful UV rays.

3. Wear Protective Clothing. Cover up with lightweight, long-sleeved shirts, wide-brimmed hats, and UV-protective sunglasses. Dark-coloured, tightly woven fabrics offer the best sun protection for your skin.

4. Avoid Indoor Tanning. This is a big no no. Indoor tanning beds and sunlamps emit harmful UV radiation that can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. Opt for sunless tanning options such as self-tanning lotions.

Introducing Serene Daily SPF 50+

We’re so proud to share the story behind our Serene Daily SPF 50+, a true labour of love, crafted over two years with the most sensitive skin in mind. This isn’t just sunscreen. It’s skincare-level protection that feels like a daily act of self-care.

At By Sarah, we believe sun protection shouldn’t come at the expense of comfort or skin health. That’s why Serene Daily SPF 50+ is dermatologically approved for sensitive skin and formulated without fragrance, essential oils or alcohol. Every ingredient has been chosen for its gentle efficacy and compatibility with even the most sensitive complexions.

In independent clinical testing, Serene Daily SPF 50+ has shown excellent skin compatibility and high-level broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection. We formulated it to be worn every day – and loved every day – by those who want more from their SPF: more calm and more confidence in their skin.

What makes it so unique? It feels like skincare. The lightweight texture absorbs effortlessly with zero white cast, leaving skin soft, smooth and protected. It's suitable for all skin types, tones and life stages – including post-treatment or rosacea-prone skin – and brings together antioxidant-rich apple and ginseng extracts to help support the skin barrier against everyday environmental stressors.

This is sun care the By Sarah way: kind, effective, and always with your skin in mind.

Your sun-safe skincare routine

Your By Sarah skincare routine this Sun Awareness Week, and beyond:

1. Remove daily sunscreen with the Balancer Cream Cleanser to leave skin clean, clearer and deeply moisturised. 
2. Follow with a spritz of the prebiotic Reviver Hydrating Mist for scientifically-proven and long-lasting hydration. 
3. Apply our Tender Skin Balm to strengthen the skin barrier and restore long-lasting moisture with soothing Madecassoside extract.
4. Massage a few drops of our restorative fragrance-free Hero Facial Oil into your skin. Combining Evening Primrose, Apricot, Argan with soothing vitamin E and other luxurious natural plant oils, it promotes moisture retention and nourishes skin.
5. Complete your morning routine with a generous layer of Serene Daily SPF 50+. This final step not only protects but nourishes, creating a strong barrier against UV rays while maintaining hydration throughout the day.

Dealing with breakouts

If you are struggling with breakouts, reach for the Ally Recovery Facial Oil that works alongside and supports your skin’s natural renewal process, helps to reinforce your skin barrier and balances out skin that may have gone into overdrive.

If you’re looking for more support, we’ve gathered a few articles that may help you along your journey:

• How to glow this spring – Seasonal tips for radiance, from hydration habits to skin-friendly rituals.

• The Science Behind Our Daily SPF 50+: Safe, Effective & Clinically Approved -Learn what makes our SPF 50+ ideal for daily sensitive skin protection.

• Sunscreen Myths: Your guide to SPF for sensitive skin - Separate fact from fiction when it comes to choosing the right SPF.

You can also explore our full library of Skin Health Guides and By Sarah Journal for mindful skincare insights, expert advice, and kind encouragement. Still have questions? Drop us a message at care@bysarahlondon.com, we’d love to hear from you.

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