TL;DR
- Application Tips:
- Use about two tablespoons for full-body protection.
- Apply chemical sunscreens 15-30 minutes before sun exposure.
- Reapply every two hours or more often if swimming or sweating.
- Sunscreen stick reapplication: Four passes back and forth.
- Extra Tips: Protect the scalp and lips; apply moisturiser before sunscreen.
- If you use a gel-based sunscreen, reapply more frequently.
Table Of Contents
- What Goes on First – Moisturiser or Sunscreen? Sunscreen or Serums?
- How Long to Wait After Moisturiser to Apply Sunscreen
- What is the Correct Way to Reapply Sunscreen?
- How Much Sunscreen to Apply
- Do I Need to Wear Sunscreen Indoors?
- Special Considerations When Applying Sunscreen
- Physical vs Chemical Sunscreens: Do They Matter?
- Are Broad-Spectrum Sunscreens Better?
- Are Oil or Gel-Based Sunscreens Better?
- How About Sunscreen Form?
Applying sunscreen is not enough—Using it effectively is crucial for protecting your skin from the detrimental effects of UV radiation. While it may seem straightforward, many people make common errors that reduce its efficacy.
This comprehensive, easy-to-follow guide provides essential information on sunscreen, ensuring you stay well-protected and don’t waste money on ineffective application.
Sunscreen Application Tips
What Goes on First – Moisturiser or Sunscreen? Sunscreen or Serums?
- Moisturiser First: Allow your moisturiser to fully absorb and dry before applying sunscreen. This prevents the sunscreen from mixing with the moisturiser, which can reduce its effectiveness.
- Serums Before Sunscreen: Apply serums before sunscreen to ensure that the active ingredients in your serums can penetrate your skin properly.
Basically, it should be serum, moisturiser, then sunscreen.
How Long to Wait After Moisturiser to Apply Sunscreen
Wait about 5 to 10 minutes after applying your moisturiser to ensure it is fully absorbed before applying sunscreen.
Tip: Use a mineral sunscreen powder or a setting spray with SPF for touch-ups.
What is the Correct Way to Reapply Sunscreen?
You can reapply the same way as you did your first application. The amount should also be the same. If using a sunscreen stick, go roughly about four passes back and forth.
If reapplying over makeup, you can either use a beauty sponge, sunscreen spray or powder.
It is not a must to cleanse your face before reapplying sunscreen, but it will be useful if you have acne-prone skin. Regardless, make sure your skin is dry before reapplying.
How Much Sunscreen to Apply
For full-body protection, you need about 2 tablespoons of sunscreen.
For your face and neck, the amount you use roughly equates to the length of the tip of your index finger to its first knuckle line.
Do I Need to Wear Sunscreen Indoors?
Yes, especially if you’re near a window.
Roughly 70% of the UVR at 300 nanometres is diffused rather than direct (sun).
While window glass blocks UVB rays, it does not block UVA rays. This means that even on a cloudy day, many UV rays will still make it through your windows.
You might have seen this viral picture of a delivery truck driver-
This man spent roughly three decades driving a delivery truck and was exposed to UV rays through the glass window on the left side of his face. The UV rays penetrate his epidermis and dermis, causing unilateral dermatoheliosis.
Special Considerations When Applying Sunscreen
- Scalp Protection: About 10% of melanomas occur on the scalp. Especially if you have thinning hair, protect your scalp by wearing hats and applying sunscreen.
- Lips: The lower lip, in particular, is highly susceptible to skin cancer. Protect your lips with a lip balm containing SPF 15 or higher or a sunscreen stick designed specifically for lips.
- Alcohol in Sunscreens: Some sunscreens contain alcohol, which can dry out the skin. Look for formulas without alcohol to avoid dryness or irritation. Note: Cetyl, stearyl, or cetearyl alcohol are fatty alcohols that can act as emollients and soften the skin.
- SPF Makeup: A good addition to your routine but should not replace sunscreen. It complements your protection but does not substitute for a dedicated sunscreen application.
- Thorough Application: Remember to apply sunblock thoroughly around the eyebrows, nose bridge, ears, neck, and upper eyelids.
Physical vs Chemical Sunscreens: Do They Matter?
Sunscreens come in various formulations – the right one for you will depend on your skin type.
| Type | What it is | Pros | Cons | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral (Physical) Sunscreens | These contain physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, creating a barrier on the skin to block UV rays. Main mechanism: Reflect away UV rays. | Great for sensitive skin types. | Might leave a white cast on the skin and feel heavier compared to chemical sunscreens. Aesthetically displeasing on darker skin. | Can be applied right before sun exposure. |
| Chemical Sunscreens | These include ingredients like avobenzone, octocrylene and octinoxate, which absorb UV rays and transform them into heat. Main mechanism: Absorb and deactivate UV rays. | These sunscreens are typically lighter and less visible on the skin, making them suitable for everyday use. | May irritate sensitive skin and could cause allergic reactions. They also require more frequent reapplication. | To be applied 15-30 minutes before heading out. |
Nowadays, most sunscreens are hybrids, combining mineral and chemical filters to offer broad-spectrum protection, which is what we’ll get into next.
Are Broad-Spectrum Sunscreens Better?
If your sunscreen isn’t “broad-spectrum”, you might want to consider getting one that is. You see, such sunscreens are formulated to protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays:
- UVB rays are the key culprits behind sunburn and skin cancer.
- UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and are associated with premature skin ageing and wrinkles.
A sunscreen labelled “broad-spectrum” ensures holistic protection against the full spectrum of UV radiation, helping reduce the risk of sunburn, skin damage, and long-term skin issues.
Regular sunscreen use will:
- Reduce your risk of squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by 40%.
- Significantly reduce your risk of melanoma.
- Help prevent premature skin ageing (ie. wrinkles, sagging and age spots).
Shop our broad-spectrum sunscreen here.
Are Oil or Gel-Based Sunscreens Better?
Sunscreen formulation can significantly impact its suitability for your skin type and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of the differences between common oil-based and gel-based sunscreens:
Oil-Based Sunscreens
- Formulated with ingredients like mineral oils, silicones, or natural oils like coconut oil
- They provide a rich, moisturising effect that is ideal for dry skin.
- While they offer additional hydration, they may feel too heavy or greasy on oily or acne-prone skin, potentially clogging pores.
Gel-Based Sunscreens
- Formulated with a water-based gel that is lightweight and absorbent, they typically contain ingredients such as water, aloe vera, or hyaluronic acid.
- Better for oily/combination skin, providing a refreshing non-greasy finish and helping to control excess oil.
- Often suitable for sensitive skin.
- It might require more frequent reapplication
How About Sunscreen Form?
Now that we’ve explained the broad sunscreen groups, let’s take a look at different sunscreen forms and how to best apply them.
| Type* *Listed from most to least effective based on general efficacy and user preferences. | What it is | Why use it | How to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water-resistant Sunscreens | Designed to maintain effectiveness and adhere to the skin even with sweat or water contact. | Such sunscreens are highly effective for maintaining protection during activities involving water or heavy sweating. | Apply generously and evenly before use. Even though water-resistant, it’s not waterproof, so reapply after swimming or excessive sweating. |
| Tinted Sunscreens**Not to be confused with SPF makeup, which is not a replacement for sunscreen. | Offers broad-spectrum protection by combining UV filters with additional protection against visible light. | Nice tint with natural looking coverage. Good option for those who sometimes forget to apply sunscreen before applying makeup. | Same as regular sunscreens. Reapply consistently. |
| Sunscreen Sprays | Designed for easy application* over large areas. *If not applied correctly, these will not be able to offer proper UV protection. | Quick and convenient, but might be tough to gauge the amount applied; it is easily dispersed by wind. | Hold the spray about 10-12 cm from your skin and spray generously and evenly over exposed areas in a sweeping motion. |
| Sunscreen Sticks | Solid formulations for precise application. | Portable and easy for touch-ups. Less convenient for large areas and may feel heavy. | Ideal for targeted reapplication. Swipe the stick over areas like your nose and cheeks. |
| Sunscreen Powders | Available in loose or pressed forms. They are applied like makeup, making them easy to carry and reapply. However, these provide less protection compared to other sunscreens. | Convenient to apply over makeup and provides a matte finish. Better as a supplementary layer over a primary sunscreen. | Apply the powder evenly across your face and neck. Use a brush or puff if needed. |
As you can see, there’s a unique sunscreen for everyone. Whatever you choose, it’s essential to use your sunscreen daily and ensure you get ample coverage by reapplying every two hours—more often if swimming and/or sweating.
Remember the two-hour rule: If you apply sunscreen an hour before heading out, reapply it an hour after you get outside (or after water or sweat exposure).
The best way to ensure full coverage is to apply sunscreen before you get dressed and then reapply it to all exposed skin.
Conclusion
Applying sunscreen correctly involves choosing the right type for your skin, using it generously, and reapplying it throughout the day. By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure maximum protection against UV damage and keep your skin healthy and radiant.
And if you notice some signs of sun damage on your face like sun spots/freckles, pigmentation removal treatments like the pico laser can help. Usually 4-8 sessions are sufficient to clear the pigments and the spots do not come back if you take the necessary measures to protect yourself from the sun after.
Contact us to find out more.
