How To Apply Sunscreen Correctly
Apply in Advance:
Timing is everything when it comes to sunscreen. Instead of slapping it on right before you step outside, make sunscreen a key part of your morning routine. Ideally, apply it 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure. This gives the sunscreen enough time to fully absorb and bond with your skin, ensuring you’re getting the full protective benefits. Waiting also allows other skincare products to settle in, creating a smooth base for your sunscreen to layer on top.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Start with Clean Skin:
Make sure your face is clean and dry before applying sunscreen. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it dry with a towel. - Apply Moisturizer (if needed):
If you have dry or combination skin, apply your regular moisturizer first and allow it to absorb before moving on to sunscreen. For oily skin, you might opt for a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer. - Use the Right Amount of Sunscreen:
A common mistake is not using enough. For your face, you need about a nickel-sized amount or 1/4 teaspoon of sunscreen. This ensures you get the full SPF protection listed on the bottle. - Dot It Across Your Face:
Instead of squeezing sunscreen into your hands and rubbing it in, apply small dots of sunscreen across your face—on your forehead, nose, cheeks, chin, and neck. This will help distribute the product evenly. - Gently Rub It In:
Using clean fingers, gently rub the sunscreen into your skin in circular motions. Don’t forget areas like your ears, hairline, and neck. Be sure to blend the sunscreen well without scrubbing too hard. - Apply on the Eyelids and Under the Eyes:
These areas are often overlooked, but they’re just as prone to sun damage. Use a small amount of sunscreen and apply it carefully around your eyes. - Let It Absorb:
Give the sunscreen a few minutes to absorb before applying makeup or stepping outside. This ensures that it forms an even protective layer on your skin. - Reapply Every 2 Hours:
Sunscreen wears off over time, especially if you’re sweating or wiping your face. Be sure to reapply every two hours when outdoors, and more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Ingredients to Avoid in Sunscreen
| Ingredient | Why Avoid It |
|---|---|
| Oxybenzone | Linked to hormonal disruption and skin allergies. |
| Octinoxate | Can cause skin irritation and may disrupt hormones. |
| Retinyl Palmitate | May increase sun sensitivity and lead to faster skin aging. |
| Parabens | Preservatives that may cause hormonal imbalance. |
| PABA (Para-aminobenzoic acid) | Can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions. |
| Homosalate | May disrupt hormones and accumulate in the body over time. |
| Fragrance | Can irritate sensitive skin and trigger allergic reactions. |
Ingredients to Choose in Sunscreen
| Ingredient | Why Choose It |
|---|---|
| Zinc Oxide | Provides broad-spectrum protection and is gentle on skin. |
| Titanium Dioxide | Physical blocker that reflects UV rays and is non-irritating. |
| Avobenzone | Offers effective UVA protection without hormonal disruption. |
| Mexoryl SX/XL | Provides long-lasting broad-spectrum UV protection. |
| Tinosorb S/M | Stable and safe UV filter with broad-spectrum protection. |
| Hyaluronic Acid | Helps keep skin hydrated while offering sun protection. |
| Vitamin E | Acts as an antioxidant, protecting skin from environmental damage. |
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