The Importance of Sunscreen, Part III: How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly and Understanding SPF Basics

Sunscreen

Apr 24

We’ve covered why sunscreen is important and the different types available. Now, let’s discuss how to apply it correctly for maximum protection and what the SPF number actually means.

How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly. It’s crucial to apply sunscreen generously and evenly to all exposed areas of skin. For spray sunscreens, apply a generous 3-4 layers to ensure complete coverage, especially if there’s a breeze that might cause some of the product to drift away. Keep in mind that sunscreen in makeup doesn’t provide enough protection on its own. Always apply a separate sunscreen first for proper coverage.

What About SPF? The SPF number on your sunscreen bottle refers to the amount of time you can stay in the sun without getting burned. For example, SPF 30 provides 30 times the protection of no sunscreen at all. It’s also important to note that SPF only measures protection against UVB rays, not UVA rays, so a broad-spectrum sunscreen is recommended.

Dermatologists generally recommend SPF 30 to 50 for everyday use, which blocks 97% to 98% of UV rays. It’s always a good idea to use a higher SPF for prolonged sun exposure or when engaging in intense outdoor activities.

Vitamin D and Sunscreen. While sunscreen is essential, it’s also important to get some natural sunlight for vitamin D. However, balancing sun exposure with protection can be tricky. The ideal window for safe sun exposure is before 10 a.m. and after 4 p.m., but in modern life, it’s easy to miss this timing. That’s why sunscreen is key, even on days when you’re getting some sun exposure for vitamin D.