We all know the drill: Wear sunscreen 365 days a year, no matter what the weather. But even if you’re practicing safe sun precautions and doing them diligently, the way you’re applying sunscreen might be affecting your sun protection. You can still be at risk for premature aging and skin cancers simply because you didn't put on enough or reapply when you should. And it’s particularly important on days where UV rays are blazing and you’re spending more time outdoors than in. Follow these rules to make the most of your SPF:
Apply an Ample Amount Chances are, you’re not applying enough. The American Academy of Dermatologists recommends that an ounce of SPF is enough to cover your whole body. Can’t picture the amount? Line up a shot glass in front of your sink, and fill it to the brim.
Do it Naked To make sure you don’t miss a spot, it’s best to be in your birthday suit. Apply in short even strokes all over your body, going from head to toe.
Let it Soak To make your sun protection work its best, you should wait 15-30 minutes before you head out in the rays. When you give it time to set, you allow the active, protective ingredients to fully absorb into your skin.
Reapply Often Experts say two hours is the max you should go before you put on another coat. Going beyond that puts you at risk for burning because the UV filters wear down over time. In fact, studies have shown that people who wait for two and a half hours instead of two have a five times greater chance of burning. If you’re actively perspiring or swimming, you should reapply immediately after, regardless, since your sun protection breaks down with water and sweat, and can come off more easily (even if it’s waterproof).
Don't be afraid to get out there in the sun now that you have a great plan to protect yourself.
Do you have a different way of putting on your sunscreen that works better? Let us know in the comment section