How to Properly Apply Sunscreen for Maximum Effectiveness
First, why wear it?
Skin cancer. It’s serious. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun is the primary cause of skin damage and aging, leading to sunburn, wrinkles, age spots, and in severe cases, skin cancer.Sun exposure is a major risk factor for skin cancer. If you didn’t know, skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the world.
I have plenty more info on sunscreen and how easy it is to find good options.
So, to sum it all up in a few words, sunscreen is important! Find one you like. Wear it daily.
How to Properly Apply Sunscreen for Maximum Effectiveness
If you’ve ever ended a day at the beach or the pool with stripes of sunburn on your body then you understand the importance of sunscreen application. Proper application of sunscreen is a key component of sun safety.
Here are some tips to ensure that you are applying sunscreen correctly:
- Choose the right SPF: At the very least you should have SPF30, and protection against both UVA and UVB rays. If you plan to be outdoors for an extended period, go ahead and choose a water-resistant sunscreen.
- Apply enough sunscreen: Many people make the mistake of applying too little sunscreen (don’t be that person). To get the full SPF protection, you need to use about two tablespoons of sunscreen for your entire body. For your face, aim to use a nickel-sized amount. Don't forget to apply sunscreen to your ears, neck, and the tops of your feet.
- Apply before going outside: This is especially the case if you are choosing to use a chemical sunscreen. It takes about 20-30 minutes for chemical sunscreen to be absorbed into your skin.
- Reapply every two hours: Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or even more often if you are sweating or swimming. Don't rely on a “high” SPF sunscreen to last all day long.
- Use sunscreen with other sun protection measures: Sunscreen is just one part of a complete sun protection plan. Make sure to wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts and hats, and seek shade during peak sun hours.
- Don't forget to apply sunscreen on cloudy days: UV rays are out even when you can’t necessarily see the sun. The rays are able to penetrate clouds, so even on a cloudy day, you should wear your sunscreen.
Sunscreen is like a friend...
Always there for you, protecting you, and never judging your decisions. Wear it.
In conclusion, wearing sunscreen is a crucial step in protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. To ensure maximum effectiveness, it's important to apply sunscreen properly and consistently, reapply as needed, and choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type (take my free quiz if you arent sure) and activity level. By following these tips, you can enjoy time outdoors while still keeping your skin healthy and radiant. So don't forget to make sunscreen a part of your daily routine, and stay protected all year round!