Do You Really Know How to Apply Sunscreen Properly

Introduction

Summer is always the best time for travel, especially for the extended duration of Summer Vacation in Schools and other institutes. But we need to be extra careful to protect ourselves from the Sun’s harmful rays. In this blog post, we will deep dive into a topic often overlooked in Summer i.e. Sunscreen Application. We know the importance of sunscreen in protecting our skin from harmful UV rays, but do we truly understand how to apply sunscreen properly?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the ins and outs of sunscreen application, focusing on the crucial aspect of doing it correctly. From providing step-by-step instructions for applying sunscreen properly to suggesting how to take after-the-sun care, get ready to master the art of sun protection and ensure your skin stays healthy and radiant.

First, let’s learn the basics briefly and know what sunscreen is.

What is Sunscreen?

Sunscreen is a skincare product designed to shield the skin from harmful UV rays by absorbing or reflecting them, which helps prevent sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. But remember, using only sunscreen isn’t enough for complete sun safety.

Select the appropriate sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect your skin effectively, or consider a day cream with a built-in SPF. However, understanding when and how to apply sunscreen to your skin is essential.

When to Apply Sunscreen?

You probably know sunscreen is essential for the beach, but dermatologists recommend using it anytime you’re outdoors for more than 20 minutes, even in winter or on cloudy days. You’ll learn more about it in subsequent sections.

How to Apply Sunscreen Properly?

After cleansing, toning (optional), and moisturizing, apply sunscreen to even out your skin tone and fight signs of aging. Whether you’re unsure about applying sunscreen directly to your face or need tips on how to do it right, this guide has you covered.

Steps to Apply Sunscreen

Before going outdoors, follow these tips to maximize the effectiveness of your sunscreen

1 – Understand Your Skin Types

Active individuals should prefer a spray sunscreen for easy reapplication.

2 – Choose the Right Sunscreen

• Choose a sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as ingredients, because these compounds effectively block both UVA and UVB rays.
• Search for sunscreens labeled “broad-spectrum” for comprehensive protection.
• Select a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher to shield your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
• Go for a higher PA-rated sunscreen as PA+ indicates some UVA protection, with more plus signs representing higher protection, reaching the maximum with PA++++.
• Try water-resistant formulas if you’ll be sweating excessively or swimming.
• Check the ingredients list for skin-friendly additives like antioxidants and moisturizers.
• If you prefer makeup over sunscreen opt for chemical sunscreen as physical sunscreen is not makeup-friendly but, remember, all your makeup kits should have SPF.
• Choose a higher SPF sunscreen when using both insect repellents and sunscreen together, and apply it more frequently, as insect repellents may lower the SPF effectiveness. Remember, in 2019, the FDA suggested that a combination of sunscreen and insect-repellent products may not be safe or effective.

Also, check out the following tip from WebMD while choosing your sunscreen

Buy a brand that does not contain para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) if you are sensitive to that ingredient.

Source: Sunscreen: How to Select, Apply, and Use It Correctly by webmd.com

3 – Check The Expiry Date

• Always check the expiry date of sunscreen before purchasing it as expired sunscreen may not provide the promised protection due to some ingredients that might degrade over time.
• If you come across an expired product, notify the store manager.

4 – Go for A Patch Test

• Before applying sunscreen to your entire body or face, perform a patch test to check for any allergic reactions.
• Try a small amount on your wrist at home.
• If you experience itching, redness, or patchiness, wash off the product and stop using it.
• Choose a sunscreen that suits your skin better.
• Keep trying until you find one that works for you, or consult your doctor for recommendations, especially if you have sensitive skin or allergies.

5 – Apply Sunscreen Generously Before Sun Exposer

• Plan to apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outdoors, as it takes time for your skin to absorb it fully.
• If you have dry skin use sunscreen 15 minutes before the sun exposure (for instance, if you apply sunscreen and then jump into the pool just 5 minutes later, you’ll lose much of your protection).
• Be generous with your application as many people need to pay more attention to the amount they need for effective protection.
• To cover all exposed areas adequately, use approximately 1 ounce of sunscreen, equivalent to a golf ball or a small-sized shot glass. This ensures thorough coverage, including ears, lips, back, shoulders, back of the knees, legs, and feet.
• For facial application follow these steps
  • Wash – First, clean your skin with a face wash.
  • Tone – After washing, use a toner to soothe and hydrate your skin with a cotton pad or spray it directly onto your face.
  • Apply Face Serum – After toning is done, make your skin hydrated with a light face serum.
  • Moisturise – After applying a hydrating face serum, use a moisturizer to maximize the benefits.
  • Now Sunscreen Time –
    • To apply sunscreen to your face, take the amount of two to three fingerfuls and gently rub it onto your neck in upward strokes.
    • Ensure to cover all sides of your neck and the back of your head.
    • If your chest is exposed, apply a bit there too.
    • Then, take the same amount on your fingers and apply it to the sides of your nose, moving towards your ears, and then to your chin, upper lip, and forehead.
    • Following these steps ensures thorough protection for your entire face and neck from the sun.

6 – Reapply Your Sunscreen After Every Two Hours

• Don’t rely on all-day protection; sunscreen effectiveness diminishes after a couple of hours.
• Reapply sunscreen for the first time after 15-30 minutes of sun exposure.
• Research suggests that reapplying sunscreen within this time frame offers better protection than waiting for 2 hours.
• After this initial reapplication, reapply sunscreen every 2 hours or as instructed on the label.
• Pat or dab gently to remove any excess oil or sweat from your skin using blotting paper or a tissue.
• If possible, utilize a mild cleanser to cleanse the skin.
• If you have makeup on your face, use a BB cream with built-in SPF or sunscreen spray.
• Reapply the sunscreen generously every two hours with a golf ball or a small shot glass-sized amount (1 oz approx).
• If you apply spray sunscreen, and then swim, or sweat a lot, reapply every 60 to 90 minutes because these activities can wash off sunscreen faster and make the sun’s rays stronger, raising the chance of sunburn.
• Reapply even if you use water-resistant sunscreen as water-resistant formulas also wash off by using water for a long time or sweating excessively.

7 – Intensify Your Sun Protection

• Support your skin’s defense against sunburns and skin cancer by including a few extra measures.
• Apply lip balm with SPF 30 or higher.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat or use an umbrella and wrap-around sunglasses with UV protection.
• Opt for tightly woven, long-sleeved shirts or specialized sun-protective clothing.
• Stay away from tanning beds, as both ultraviolet light from the sun and these beds can lead to skin cancer and premature wrinkling.
• If you prefer a tan look, consider using a self-tanning product, but ensure to use sunscreen alongside it.
• Be aware when around water, snow, and sand, as they reflect the sun’s harmful rays, heightening the risk of sunburn.

Remember, while sunscreen is vital, it doesn’t offer 100% protection. Combining these precautions with proper sunscreen application and reapplication can significantly reduce the risk of sunburn and skin cancer. So, make sure to protect your skin year-round. And, you should apply sunscreen every day on skin not covered by clothing if you are outside as the sun emits harmful UV rays year-round; even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate the clouds.

Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen. For sunscreen to do its job effectively, you should apply 1 ounce of sunscreen — the size of a golf ball — to every part of your body exposed to the sun.

Source: Sunscreen: Tips to wear it well by MD Anderson Center

Is Sunscreen Needed While Indoors

Wearing sunscreen indoors is crucial for safeguarding your skin from harmful UV and blue light exposure, preventing premature aging, and reducing the risk of skin cancer.

• Dermatologists recommend wearing sunscreen indoors, especially if you spend long periods near windows or in well-lit areas. This is because UVA rays, which are the main cause of skin aging and cancer, can penetrate glass windows. Studies suggest that up to 50% of UVA rays can pass through windows.
• Additionally, exposure to blue light from electronic screens like computers, phones, or tablets can also contribute to skin damage and premature aging, albeit at lower levels than sunlight.
• Applying sunscreen to your face, neck, and arm before cooking is advisable to shield your skin from heat and fumes, which can cause damage and tanning. Extended time in the kitchen may also lead to skin issues like breakouts.

For those spending prolonged hours cooking, using sunscreen with SPF 15 is recommended to protect the skin from damage.

To protect your skin from indoor UV and blue light exposure, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Look for sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide for optimal UVA and UVB protection. Consider sunscreens formulated to combat blue light, which often contains antioxidants like vitamins C and E.

Is It Necessary to Reapply Sunscreen While Indoors

It’s generally not necessary to reapply sunscreen while indoors unless you are near windows or exposed to intense indoor lighting that emits UV rays. UV radiation from the sun can penetrate glass windows, so if you spend extended periods near windows or in well-lit areas indoors, reapplying sunscreen may be beneficial. However, for typical indoor activities away from direct sunlight, such as working or relaxing inside, reapplication may not be required.

What are the Pros and Cons of Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a powerful tool for protecting your skin, but like anything else, it has pros and cons.

Pros:

Reduces Skin Cancer Risk.
Slows Signs of Aging.
Protects early wrinkles around your eyes.
Helps to prevent premature cataracts.
Allows us to soak up the sun without dehydrating the skin.
Keeps us away from sunburn.
Prevents dark tanning.

Cons:

Provides a greasy appearance.
Contributes to clogged pores.
Have to wait 30 minutes before the sun exposer.
Affects vitamin D absorption.
Can create skin irritation.
Some formulations can harm coral reefs.
Needs frequent reapplication every 2 hours.

But let’s be real, the pros far outweigh the cons.

How to Take After-the-Sun Care

Sunburn can occur even after our best prevention efforts, resulting in burnt or dried-out skin. It’s crucial to have an effective after-sun care routine. Here are some tips for skin care after sun exposure:

1. Take a refreshing cool shower.
2. Moisturize your skin generously.
3. Opt for skincare products with aloe vera to calm your skin.
4. Avoid using products that could exacerbate dryness or irritation.
5. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Conclusion

In conclusion, proper sunscreen application is crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, reduce the risk of skin cancer, and prevent premature aging. Understanding your skin type and choosing the right sunscreen with a broad spectrum, SPF 30 or higher, PA rating, and water-resistant formula is key. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially when swimming or sweating, and wear protective clothing and accessories for added sun protection. Remember, sunscreen is necessary even while indoors near windows or in well-lit areas. By following these guidelines and incorporating sun safety measures into your daily routine, you can enjoy the sun safely and keep your skin healthy and radiant.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Question for you

What’s your biggest sunscreen application challenge, and how do you overcome it?

Please feel free to share your answer in the comment box below.

Thank you for reading this blog post. I hope you found it informative and useful. I would love to hear your thoughts and opinions on this topic. Please leave a comment below and share your feedback, suggestions, questions, or anything else you want to say. I appreciate your support and engagement.

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