Do you start with your feet and work your way up when applying sunscreen? Maybe you just give everything a quick spray and move on. If you’re in the habit of applying sunscreen daily, you might be surprised to learn there’s a recommended technique.
Are you applying sunscreen correctly? Let’s see what the experts recommend.
Begin at the Top
Experts agree the best way to apply sunscreen is by starting with your face. Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a dermatologist, advises starting at the face and working your way down to avoid spreading bacteria from your body to your face. Dr. Teresa Song supports this method, explaining that skin care products for the body tend to be heavier and more occlusive compared to those for the face, which can lead to breakouts if used incorrectly.
The Right Amount
How do you apply sunscreen: globs or dabs? Dr. DiAnne Davis, another dermatologist, suggests applying dots or globs of sunscreen to the cosmetic subunits of the face – one for the forehead, each cheek, the chin, around the mouth, the nose, and the eyes. Alternatively, you can rub a glob between your hands and apply it evenly over your face.
Timing Makeup
When should sunscreen be applied in your skincare routine? According to Dr. Claire Wolinsky, products should be layered from thinnest to thickest. Chemical sunscreen should go first, directly on the skin, followed by moisturizer and then makeup. For mineral sunscreens, they should be the final step to ensure maximum protection from the sun. Dr. Hartman also suggests letting the sunscreen sit for at least 10 minutes before applying makeup to ensure it fully absorbs.
Don’t Skimp on Quantity
A common mistake people make is not using enough sunscreen. Dr. Hartman recommends using a full ounce – the equivalent of a shot glass or a golf ball-sized amount – to cover your body. While spray sunscreens are convenient, they require multiple passes and should be rubbed in to ensure protection.
Cover Every Inch
Make sure to cover often-missed areas like the ears, neck, and the back of the hands, which also receive significant UV exposure. These are common sites for skin cancer, as highlighted by dermatologist and Mohs surgeon Dr. Carolyn Stull.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
Dr. Mojgan Hosseinipour advocates for physical or mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide, as they offer broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. Tinted sunscreens with iron oxides can additionally protect against blue light, infrared, and visible light. Look for sunscreens with at least SPF 30, that are water-resistant.
Dr. Teresa Song explains that “SPF” refers to “sun protection factor,” and “PA” measures protection against UVA rays, recommending products with SPF 30 or higher and a PA rating of 4-plus. SPFs of 30 block 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks 98%.
Not All SPF Products Are Equal
Makeup with SPF isn’t a sufficient substitute for sunscreen, warns medical aesthetician Victoria Waked. Makeup is often applied sparingly and may not provide even and thorough coverage, compromising its effectiveness.
Apply and Reapply
Timing is crucial. Dr. Hosseinipour advises applying sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors to allow the product to absorb and protect effectively. Reapply every two hours when exposed to the sun, or immediately after swimming or sweating.
Here are some top-rated sunscreens recommended by dermatologists and loved by HuffPost readers:
Mineral Sunscreens
- Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30: A favorite for its lightweight, radiant finish and nourishing ingredients.
- Supergoop! Mineral Sheer Screen SPF 30: A 100% mineral product that offers comprehensive protection, including blue light.
- Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face SPF 50: Lightweight and packed with antioxidants, it provides robust protection without a greasy finish.
Chemical Sunscreens
- Supergoop! Glow Screen SPF 40: Loved for its tinted, moisturizing formula, it provides sun protection with a glowing finish.
- SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense: This product is known for its sun protection and skin-brightening capabilities.
Korean and Japanese Beauty Sunscreens
- Beauty of Joseon Probiotic SPF 50+: A cult favorite for its hydrating and lightweight formula.
- Biore UV Aqua Rich Water Essence SPF 50: A water-based sunscreen that is lightweight and suitable for acne-prone skin.
Water-Resistant Sunscreens
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk SPF 60: Offers broad protection with a lightweight, non-greasy finish.
- Vacation Classic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30: Known for its clean finish and summer scent, it’s easy to apply and water-resistant.
Investing in high-quality sunscreens and using them correctly can ensure you’re protected from harmful UV rays year-round. Happy sunbathing!
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