By now, most patients understand how important it is to wear sunscreen. However, while many people apply sunscreen regularly, we are often surprised to learn that very few truly understand how to use sunscreen on face and body effectively.
We spend time educating our patients on the importance of proper sunscreen use for overall skin health. One of the first topics we discuss is SPF (Sun Protection Factor). For most individuals, an SPF of 30 provides adequate protection, and sunscreens with an SPF higher than 50 offer little additional benefit.
In addition to choosing the right SPF, how you apply sunscreen and how often you apply it plays a major role in its effectiveness.
What You Need to Know
Apply a generous amount of sunscreen.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that the average adult use approximately one ounce (about the size of a shot glass) to cover all exposed skin. Most people apply far too little, which significantly reduces protection—especially when learning how to use sunscreen on face properly.
Apply sunscreen before going outdoors.
Sunscreen should be applied about 15 minutes prior to sun exposure to allow it to absorb into the skin. Applying it immediately before sweating or entering water can make it less effective.
Use water- or sweat-resistant sunscreen when needed.
If you plan on swimming or sweating, it’s important to select a sunscreen designed for those activities. Reapply frequently during extended water exposure or heavy sweating.
Reapply every two hours.
Even if your skin does not feel burned, sunscreen must be reapplied every two hours. If you feel sunburned, the damage has already occurred. Reapply more often after swimming or excessive sweating.
Choose oil-free sunscreen if you’re acne-prone.
Ingredients matter when learning how to use sunscreen on face. Oil-free and non-comedogenic formulas help reduce the risk of clogged pores and breakouts.
Wear sunscreen every day.
Harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays are present on both sunny and cloudy days. Sunscreen should be applied during any outdoor activity, including time spent in the car, as UV rays can pass through glass.
Protect More Than Just Your Face
While understanding how to use sunscreen on face is essential, don’t forget other commonly exposed areas. Apply sunscreen to your scalp, ears, neck, chest, forearms, and hands. These areas are frequently overlooked in daily routines and are especially vulnerable to sun damage.
Chronic sun exposure can lead to poikiloderma, a common cosmetic condition characterized by red and brown discoloration of the neck and chest.
Consistent and correct sunscreen use helps protect your skin and enhances results seen in age spot removal before and after pictures, keeping your skin healthier and more youthful over time.
Daily sunscreen use is one of the most effective ways to protect your skin—when applied correctly, it truly makes a difference.
