Mythbusting: How Much Sun Cream Do You Really Need To Use?
We’ve been blessed with some pleasant and sunny weather this spring, and as the daylight hours increase and the sun becomes more powerful, it’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. There are a range of effective natural SPF moisturisers available that will nourish your skin as well as providing broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection.
However, many people don’t use these products effectively, leaving them vulnerable to sunburn, premature ageing, and increasing their risk of developing skin cancer. Here’s a look at what SPF actually means, and how to use these products to maximise your sun protection this summer.
Understanding SPF
SPF stands for ‘sun protection factor’ and it is a rating that determines how much protection from sun damage a product will give you. The level of SPF is determined by the percentage of UVB rays that is blocked. An SPF of 15 blocks about 93 per cent of UVB radiation, while an SPF 30 blocks 97 per cent, and an SPF 100 blocks 100 per cent.
However, there are some variables to bear in mind. For example, the sun is stronger towards the middle of the day, so solar exposure is increased even if you spend less time outdoors. Regions closer to the equator also have greater solar exposure than those in more outward hemispheres.
Another important point to be aware of is that an SPF product on its own will only guard against UVB rays, and may not filter out more harmful UVA rays. Therefore for the best level of sun protection, look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that provides both a UVB and UVA barrier, with an SPF of at least 30.
How much sun cream should you apply?
Most people underestimate the amount of sun cream they need to use, according to the NHS. It is recommended that adults use around six to eight teaspoons (about a shot glass) of sunscreen to cover the whole of the body. For the face and neck, use about half a teaspoon, or a strip of sunscreen applied across the length of two fingers.
Sunscreen should be applied on all exposed areas of skin. Don’t forget to apply cream to the tips of ears, the back of your hands, and use an SPF lip balm to protect your lips. Those with thinning hair are advised to wear a hat with a wide brim. If you are using a spray-on sunscreen, apply enough to leave an even coating on your skin.
How often should you apply sunscreen?
Sunscreen should be applied 30 minutes before going out to allow for absorption, and again just before you go out. It’s also recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours, because the sun can dry the cream out and render it less effective. However, sunscreen should still be applied even on cloudy days, because UV rays pass through clouds.
Water-resistant sunscreen is recommended if you will be doing an activity that makes you sweaty, or if you have contact with water. However, if you have prolonged contact with water such as a paddle or swim, then you should fully reapply sunscreen whether it is water resistant or not.
When to take extra precautions
Children and babies
Children and babies have more sensitive and delicate skin than adults, and sunburn can cause them serious and lasting damage. Babies should never be left in direct sunlight, and all young children should be covered up with light clothing and sunhats. Any areas of exposed skin should be protected with sunscreen suitable for their age range.
Adults with sensitive or high-risk skin
Adults with naturally pale skin should be extra vigilant, as pale skin tends to burn more easily than darker skin. People with fair or red hair, freckles or moles are also more prone to sun damage. If you have a family history of skin cancer, or are travelling to a country close to the equator and do not normally have intense sun exposure, take extra care to protect your skin.
As well as using sunscreen, cover up with long sleeved tops and trousers, and always wear a sunhat and sun glasses. Ideally, avoid going outdoors when the sun is at its strongest in the core of the day. Some clothing has a UPF rating, but as a general rule dark colours provide much more protection than light colours.
If you have sensitive skin, look for scent-free products that do not contain parabens, petrochemical derivatives, artificial colourants or alcohol.
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