At Wildsmith Skin, we believe prevention is as vital as repair. Our work is rooted in understanding the mechanisms that keep skin healthy over time, and no single factor accelerates visible and structural ageing more than unprotected exposure to the sun.
The science of UV damage
Solar radiation reaches the skin in two key wavelengths:
• UVA rays penetrate deeply into the dermis, degrading collagen and elastin and triggering oxidative stress that leads to premature ageing and loss of firmness.
• UVB rays are responsible for surface burns, DNA mutations and direct damage to epidermal cells.
Both contribute to pigmentation disorders, uneven texture, loss of elasticity, and in severe cases, skin cancers. UVA rays are present all year, penetrate cloud cover and glass, and account for around 95% of the UV radiation that reaches us. This is why daily SPF application is essential not just in summer, not just on sunny days, but every day of the year.
Mineral vs chemical sunscreens
In skincare, sunscreens fall into two broad categories:
• Mineral (physical) filters such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These reflect and scatter UV radiation at the skin’s surface, are photostable, and begin working immediately after application.
• Chemical (organic) filters such as avobenzone and bis-ethylhexyloxyphenol methoxyphenyl triazine. These absorb UV radiation and convert it into harmless heat released from the skin. They tend to offer lighter textures and a more seamless finish, which can make them preferable for daily use under skincare and makeup.
While mineral sunscreens remain an excellent option, we also recognise the innovation in modern chemical filters that deliver high protection with improved sensory qualities. For daily use, we recommend Gun Ana SPF, a formulation that offers advanced broad-spectrum defence in a texture designed to encourage consistent application.
Gun Ana combines next-generation filters (Butyl Methoxydibenzoylmethane, Ethylhexyl Triazone, Bis-Ethylhexyloxyphenol Methoxyphenyl Triazine, Phenylbenzimidazole Sulfonic Acid) for photostable UVA and UVB protection, with a base enriched by nourishing botanicals and skin conditioners.
Key beneficial ingredients include:
• Avena Sativa (Oat) Kernel Flour and Oil to calm and strengthen the skin barrier
• Rosa Canina (Rosehip) Fruit Oil rich in essential fatty acids for regeneration support
• Triticum Vulgare (Wheat) Germ Oil for vitamin E antioxidant protection
• Shea Butter Ethyl Esters for lightweight, non-greasy nourishment
• Sodium Hyaluronate to replenish hydration and plump the skin
• Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract with natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
Our preferred SPF profile
The ideal sunscreen, in our view, combines:
• Advanced broad-spectrum filters that are photostable and offer consistent UVA and UVB protection
• Antioxidants such as vitamin E, polyphenols or botanical extracts to neutralise free radicals generated by UV exposure and pollution
• Barrier-replenishing actives like ceramides, squalane, or bioactive peptides to offset the potential dryness and sensitivity sometimes associated with SPF use
• Elegant, wearable textures that encourage consistent daily use, because protection only works if it becomes habit
Gun Ana fulfils all of these criteria, delivering high-performance sun protection while actively supporting skin health.
SPF as part of a repair-driven routine
SPF is not a stand-alone step but part of an integrated approach: protecting in the day and repairing at night. Our philosophy is to pair high-protection sunscreens like Gun Ana with antioxidant-rich serums and bioactive moisturisers to strengthen skin resilience.
After-sun care
Even with the best protection, skin benefits from additional recovery support after UV exposure. We recommend:
• ACTIVE REPAIR COPPER PEPTIDE CREAM to stimulate collagen synthesis, improve firmness and replenish hydration
• ACTIVE REPAIR NOURISHING CLEANSING BALM to remove sunscreen, impurities and pollution without disrupting the skin barrier
• ACTIVE SUPER OIL to deliver omega-rich botanicals that calm inflammation and restore lipid balance
• RADIANCE LIGHT SERUM to support antioxidant repair and help counteract pigmentation triggers
Our stance is simple:
Every day, all year, SPF is essential. We recommend Gun Ana for its advanced protection and skin-supporting actives. Protect in the day, repair at night, and your skin will thank you for decades to come.
