Maintaining your skin free from the harm done by unsafe UV rays is the secret to healthy skin in the long term. But it’s not merely grabbing whatever sunscreen you can. Application, makeup, and frequency matter more than you know. No matter whether you have oily skin or just want to maintain that healthy glow, proper application of your sun protection is the key to making it all worth it for you.
Let us review the key Do’s and Don’ts of applying sun protection to help you receive the best possible benefit from your sunscreen.
The Do’s of Sunscreen Application
1. Select the Proper Sunscreen for Your Skin
The initial step to claim sun protection is to use the suitable sunscreen. For acne-sensitive skin, employ oil-free non-comedogenic sunscreens in a bid not to clog pores. Mineral sunscreens such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are suitable because they stay on your skin surface and act as a physical barrier for cover, and don’t get into your skin. Choose sunscreens that, in addition to the above ingredients, include calming ingredients such as niacinamide or hyaluronic acid in them for additional moisturizing. Dermatologist go-to favorite is EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46, and the reason is very obvious.
2. Use a Generous Amount
All of us are not using enough sunscreen. To thoroughly cover, use a quarter size on your face only. Don’t forget the hard-to-remember spots: ears, neck, and hairline. Reapply every two hours while in water or sweating. When outdoors, it gives ongoing protection and prevents those sneak up on you sunburns.
3. Seek Broad-Spectrum Protection
Use broad-spectrum sunscreens as they will protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA causes wrinkles and premature aging, and UVB causes sunburn. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Light Fluid SPF 60 provides UVA and UVB protection in a light, non-greasy texture.
4. Incorporate Sunscreen into Your Regimen
Sunscreen is to be applied as the last step of your morning routine after washing and moisturizing. Apply it minimum 15 minutes before going outside into the sun for optimal results. UVA rays are present indoors, as well, and can damage your skin even through windows, so apply sunscreen on rainy days and sunny days alike.
5. Think about Your Outdoor Activities
If you’re going to be swimming or sweating a lot, water-resistant sunscreens are a must. These formulas stay on your skin longer, even in water. Look for sunscreens with water resistance ratings like 40 or 80 minutes. Supergoop! Mineral Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40 is a great option because it’s water-resistant, lightweight, and doubles as a primer for makeup.
6. Stick to SPF 30 or Higher
SPF 30 you can use normally, and it will protect you 97% of the UVB. If you’re going to be out longer than just a short time, though, SPF 50 or 60 would be a little increase in protection, but actually not really necessary. Regardless of what your SPF is, just reapply because at some point it will break down, and particularly if you start to sweat or get wet.
7. Use Tinted or Powder Sunscreens for an Extra Boost
Use a tinted or powder sunscreen for an extra boost. Tinted sunscreens such as Tower 28 SunnyDays SPF 30 not only protect against those dreaded sun rays but also have your skin look its best. Powder sunscreens such as Brush on Block SPF 30 are great to reapply and give oily skin a matte finish.
The Don’ts of Sunscreen Use
Even with all sunscreen procedure in place, there are some general errors that will drain your defense. Here’s what to avoid:
8. Avoid Skimping on Sunscreen on Cloudy Days
All almost everyone believes that they don’t have to apply sunscreen when it is cloudy or raining outside, but this is wrong. 80% of the UV rays can pass even through the clouds, and thus your skin is still unprotected. Apply sunscreen as part of your everyday activity regardless of the weather to avoid cumulative sun damage.
9. Don’t Use Expired Sunscreen
Sunscreen too has expiration dates and the ones that have passed their date of expiration won’t be as effective. Read the expiration date on the bottle each time, and in case it has changed color, consistency, or smell, then it’s time to discard it. Keep your sunscreen in a dry location, cool, and away from water’s reach in order to remain effective.
10. Do Not Apply Sunscreen Over Makeup
While it’s tempting to put sunscreen on over your makeup for added protection, this will provide an uneven appearance and isn’t as effective. Use the sunscreen sprays or powders that are designed to go on over makeup. These add a little extra sun protection without ruining your makeup.
11. Don’t Forget to Reapply
Sunscreen expires when it wears off after a while, especially if you are sweating, swimming, or touch your face. Morning application is not long-lasting. Make sure to reapply every two hours when you are outside, or following swimming or heavy sweating.
12. Don’t Leave Hard-to-Reach Spots Behind
It’s simple to forget areas such as the back of your neck, ears, and crown of your feet. They get just as much sun as your face. To protect your scalp, spray on a sunscreen or wear a hat. Your scalp must be fully covered for optimum protection.
13. Don’t Count on Sunscreen for Prolonged Sun Exposure
Sunscreen is crucial but no miracle pill. Wear it when outside for prolonged periods combined with other protective equipment such as a hat, sunglasses, and UPF-tested clothing. Stay in the shade when the sun is at its strongest (normally between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.) for ultimate protection.
14. Do Not Believe Higher SPF = Endless Protection
Although greater SPF provides a little extra protection, there is no block of sun that will keep 100% from the sun. SPF 50 may keep out some 98% of UVB rays, but this is not why to exclude reapplication. Apply lots of sunscreen and reapply frequently for best protection.
By remembering these Do’s and Don’ts, you can help your sunscreen routine do its job of protecting your skin from the damaging energy of UV rays. Sunscreen is not a product it is an investment for the skin of tomorrow. Incorporate it into your daily skin care routine, and you’ll be well on your way to sun-protected, healthier skin.
