Despite the cooler breeze and better weather, UV rays remain strong enough to cause skin damage during the monsoon. The UV-A rays, which penetrate deep into the skin, remain constant year-round and easily pass through clouds and window glass. These rays contribute to premature ageing, pigmentation, and even skin cancers. Add to this the humid environment and frequent sweating, and your regular sun protection habits need a serious monsoon upgrade.
Being consistent with sunscreen, following application rules, and covering often-missed areas will help keep your skin protected and healthy all year round. According to Dr Dhanyata Nikhil Ghubade, Consultant Dermatologist, Dermatosurgeon and Aesthetic Physician, Pristine Plastic Surgery, Dermatology and Cosmetology Centre, Thane West, UV exposure is a key cause of premature skin ageing, pigmentation, and skin cancers. “Yet, most people apply only 25–50 percent of the recommended sunscreen amount, reducing its effectiveness,” she says, and adds that "the 2-finger rule is a simple way to ensure proper coverage and better protection against UV damage".
Dr Ghubade shares the 2-finger rule and smart sunscreen hacks to outsmart UV rays every day:
Also read | Sunscreen: Tips to protect your skin with full light technology this summer
- The two finger rule: Most people barely use half the sunscreen their skin needs, reducing its protective effect. “Squeeze sunscreen along the entire length of your index and middle fingers for the face and neck. For the rest of the body, use the ‘rule of nines’ to divide areas and apply adequate amounts,” Dr Ghubade explains.
- Adjust based on texture and thickness of your sunscreen: Thicker, cream-based formulas may require slightly less product, while lighter or more watery sunscreens could need up to three fingers’ worth for the same area.
- Divide and rule with the rule of nines: To ensure even application across your body, visualise dividing it into sections using the ‘rule of nines’. This makes it easier to allocate the correct amount of sunscreen for each area like arms, legs and torso.
- Time your application well and never rush it last minute: Apply sunscreen at least 15 to 30 minutes before stepping outside. This gives the formula time to absorb properly and offer maximum protection when you need it.
- Dab, don’t drag, while applying to delicate facial areas: Gently dab sunscreen onto your cheeks, forehead, chin and nose first. If you like, use a makeup sponge to pat and blend it out evenly without over-rubbing.
- Let each layer dry properly before adding the next coat: Allow one layer to dry completely before applying another. This stops the sunscreen from feeling sticky and improves absorption and coverage.
- Stay consistent and never skip even on cloudy days: Daily and regular sunscreen application is crucial, especially in urban environments where UV rays and pollution together can cause compounded skin damage over time.
- Reapply every two hours especially if outdoors or sweating: Whether you’re outdoors, sweating, or wiping your face often, make sure to reapply your sunscreen every two hours. Consistency here matters as much as quantity.
- Switch to sticks and sprays for quick reapplication over makeup: When short on time or wearing makeup, use sunscreen sticks or sprays. They allow easy touch-ups during commutes or while on the move without ruining your base.
- Don’t forget the easy-to-miss spots that need equal care: Areas like the ears, back of the neck and around the eyes often get overlooked. Make a conscious effort to cover these regions every time you apply sunscreen.
- Double up with accessories like hats and sunglasses for extra defence: Sunscreen works best when paired with physical protection. Incorporate wide-brimmed hats, UV-filter sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing for full-spectrum defence against UV rays.
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