Learn how to properly apply sunscreen for optimum effectiveness

Do apply enough

Most people apply too little sunscreen, leaving skin unprotected, and achieving a sun-protection-factor (SPF) far below that the bottle advertises. In order to maximize the ability of your sunscreen, it should be applied at approximately 2 milligrams of lotion per square centimeter of skin, or about one ounce for your entire body. That’s roughly the amount in a shot glass – so be generous with your sunscreen and slather it on!

Do use broad spectrum

Not all sunscreens are created equal. Some may only protect from UVB radiation, leaving you vulnerable to other damaging wavelengths of sun. In order to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB radiation, sunscreen needs to be labeled as “Broad Spectrum”. Broad spectrum sunscreens will not only prevent sunburn, but will also prevent premature skin aging and skin cancer.

Do use a physical blocker

Unlike chemical sunscreens, which absorb the sun’s rays and can create free radicals, physical sunscreen protect skin by deflecting the radiation. Classic physical blocker sunscreens include ingredients such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide, and are a better choice for people with sensitive skin; they tend to be less irritating than their chemical sunscreen counterpart.

Do apply early

Many sunscreens require 15 minutes, some even 30 minutes, before they are fully absorbed into the skin. Without early application, sunscreen is unable to fully protect, leaving your skin exposed to harmful UV radiation. Keep the application of sunscreen early in your daily regimen, so by the time you’re out the door, your sun protection is working at maximum potential.

Do reapply often

Unfortunately, even if you apply your sunscreen correctly, you have to reapply it to keep the benefits going. At most, sunscreen remains effective for two hours, but if you’re sweating, swimming, or rubbing, you’ll need to reapply even sooner. If you’re planning to be outdoors all day, make sure you have enough sunscreen to last through several applications, and reapplications.

Do not use expired product

Using expired sunscreen is a common reason for sunburn. Most sunscreens have a shelf-life between two and three years, however due to it’s unstable nature, bottles open for longer than one year should be thrown out. Additionally, if the expiration date has been reached, or if the sunscreen was left outside room temperature, it’s less likely to adequately protect you.

Do not mix with other products

Mixing your sunscreen with lotions, creams, or other skincare products can dilute the active ingredients and reduce the SPF below what the labeling reflects. To wear sunscreen along with other topical makeup, rub sunscreen into the skin until it’s fully absorbed, and then apply makeup or lotions after.

Do not settle

Sunscreen comes in all types, colors, and textures. Finding a sunscreen that feels comfortable on your skin will increase the likelihood that you’ll apply it daily. Trying various brands and varieties is worth the time; continue sampling the options available (there are many!), until you find one that blends nicely with your skin type. For people who dislike chalky opaque lotions, tinted and clear versions are available and may be more cosmetically elegant. Consider the smell, color, and weight of each sunscreen as you apply it.

Do not miss a spot

It’s easy to neglect the spots you can’t see, but areas like the top of your head and the back of your neck are often overlooked, and frequently left with sunburns at the end of a beach day. In order to fully protect yourself, sunscreen should be rubbed onto the scalp of those who are thinning or balding. Difficult-to-reach areas such as the back can be covered by using spray sunscreens. Lips require specialized products designed for this specific location, and lip balms, creams and ointments can be used that will apply smoothly and easily to keep them from burning.

Do not expect miracles

Sunscreen is best utilized as a part of your sun-safety habits, along with other protective behaviors. Assuming sunscreen affords you the ability to sit endlessly in the sun or to overestimate its protection will only lead to sunburns, skin cancer, and premature skin-aging. Sunscreen is not impenetrable, and its protection, although valuable, has limits. Ideally, it should be used when sun-avoidance is not possible- but efforts should always be made to seek shade, avoid sun during peak hours, and to wear photoprotective clothing.