Proper application of sunscreen is essential for effective protection against the harmful effects of UV rays, which can cause skin damage, premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer. Despite its importance, many people do not use sunscreen correctly, diminishing its effectiveness.
Here are five detailed tips to help you maximise the protective benefits of sunscreen and ensure your skin remains healthy and safe from the sun’s harmful rays, according to Skin Frend founder and dermatologist Radhika Narang.
Apply enough sunscreen
Applying the correct amount of sunscreen is crucial for ensuring that your skin is adequately protected. Many people make the mistake of applying too little, which significantly reduces the effectiveness of the sunscreen.
Face and neck: When applying sunscreen to your face and neck, you should use about a nickel-sized amount. Make sure to blend the sunscreen well into the skin, including under the chin and along the hairline.
Body: For the rest of your body, you need about one ounce of sunscreen, roughly the amount that fits in a shot glass. This guideline ensures that you cover all exposed skin adequately. Pay special attention to larger areas like your arms, legs, and torso, ensuring that no spots are missed.
Apply 15-30 minutes before sun exposure
Timing is crucial when it comes to applying sunscreen. To ensure optimal protection, sunscreen needs time to bind to your skin and start working effectively.
Apply sunscreen at least 15 to 30 minutes before you go outside. This allows the active ingredients in the sunscreen to absorb properly into your skin, creating an effective barrier against UV rays. Proper absorption is key to the effectiveness of sunscreen.
Reapply every two hours
Even the best sunscreen will not last all day, especially when you are active outdoors. Factors such as sweating, swimming, and towel drying can wear off sunscreen, reducing its effectiveness.
To maintain protection, you should reapply sunscreen at least every two hours. This is a general guideline that helps ensure continuous protection throughout the day. If you are swimming, sweating heavily, or engaging in activities that cause you to wipe your skin frequently, you should reapply more often, even if the sunscreen is labeled as water-resistant.
Don’t miss commonly overlooked spots
Certain areas of the body are often forgotten during sunscreen application, yet they are equally susceptible to sun damage.
Ears: Your ears, especially the tops, can easily get burned. Make sure to cover them thoroughly with sunscreen.
Back of the neck: This area is often exposed to the sun, especially if you have short hair or wear your hair up. Apply sunscreen generously to this spot.
Tops of the feet: If you are wearing sandals or flip-flops, your feet are exposed to the sun. Don't forget to apply sunscreen to the tops and sides of your feet.
Back of the hands: Hands are frequently exposed to the sun, and the skin here is often thin and delicate. Ensure you cover the backs of your hands well.
Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30
Select a sunscreen labeled broad-spectrum, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature aging and skin cancer, while UVB rays cause sunburn and also play a role in skin cancer development.
Ensure your sunscreen has an SPF of at least 30. SPF 30 blocks approximately 97 percent of UVB rays, which is sufficient for most people in everyday situations. Higher SPF values can provide more protection, particularly for fair-skinned individuals or those spending extended periods in direct sunlight.
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