You’ve likely heard the claim that skipping sunscreen can lead to premature skin aging. However, some people find sunscreen irritating or uncomfortable, making it difficult to apply it regularly. So, what do you do in the summer when the UV rays are particularly strong, and you’re worried about sun damage but also fear a skin reaction to sunscreen? We’ve looked closer at the different types of sunscreens and how to apply them effectively.
Physical vs. Chemical Sunscreen
Sunscreens are categorized into physical blockers and chemical blockers. If your eyes sting and feel uncomfortable, it could be due to the ingredients in your chemical sunscreen. Chemical sunscreens can transfer absorbed heat energy to the skin, potentially irritating people with sensitive skin further.
Is a Higher SPF and PA Better?
Generally, the higher the SPF or PA rating, the better the UV protection. SPF indicates the UVB protection factor, which prevents freckles and erythema. Typically, SPF1 is assumed to provide 15 minutes of UV protection so that SPF50 would provide 750 minutes. PA Plus is a UVA protection measure that prevents pigmentation and wrinkles—the more plus signs, the higher the protection level.
Apply Little and Often vs. Apply a Lot at Once
To achieve the desired effect, sunscreen should be applied evenly, in the correct amount, and at the appropriate time. Generally, it’s best to apply sunscreen carefully after applying skin lotion, then proceed with makeup. Reapply sunscreen every 2-3 hours.
How Much Should You Apply?
For an adult male, it’s recommended to apply 900 mg of sunscreen to the face, and for a female, 800 mg. This is roughly the size of one finger joint, but using this amount all at once can be difficult. Therefore, it’s recommended to apply it in several layers. Applying SPF50 sunscreen followed by an SPF30 cushion does not result in an SPF80. Choose a product that suits you, use it evenly every two hours, and let it absorb into the skin.
How to Eliminate White Cast?
When applying sunscreen, it can occasionally leave a white appearance on the face, a phenomenon known as a white cast. This typically occurs when using a physical sunscreen. Physical sunscreens have a high light refraction rate, causing them to reflect light in the visible spectrum and appear white. In this case, it’s recommended to use a chemical sunscreen with less white cast or apply a thin layer and spread it evenly.
Can I Use Last Year’s Product This Year?
Is it safe to use the leftover product from last year this year? This answer varies depending on sunscreen, with some being usable for up to 30 months from the manufacturing date and others for up to 36 months. Adhere to the expiration date on the product and store and use it correctly to ensure effective UV protection. As it is a functional cosmetic, using it as soon as possible is generally recommended.
Do I Need to Differentiate by Season?
Sunscreen can be used regardless of season, but it’s not a bad idea to use different products considering the area of use and the environment. When you sweat a lot in the humid summer months, it’s good to use sunscreen that has an effect against oil, sebum, and sweat or has a calming effect. In the winter, it’s good to apply a product with a high level of moisturization.
How Far Should I Apply It?
Should sunscreen only be applied to the face? Not at all. You should also cover areas that are easy to miss: eyes, hairline, ears, and neck. Rub in instead of pat in the product for an even application. It’s also recommended to apply it to areas frequently exposed to the sun, like the neck and feet. You should not use regular sunscreen since the scalp and lips have different skin structures. Use lip-specific products for lips, and avoid applying sunscreen on the scalp, as it can clog pores.
Do I need to apply it if I wear long clothes?
Even wearing long sleeves, if your skin is visible or the material is thin, it may not provide sufficient UV protection. Therefore, if you plan to be outside for a long time, it’s recommended to use sunscreen. Also, you should carefully apply sunscreen even on rainy or cloudy days, as UV rays exist. Transparent glass allows more than 90% of UV rays to pass through, so you should not be complacent even when indoors.
How Should I Apply It to Children?
Because children’s skin is thinner than adults’, it tends to absorb sunscreen at a higher rate. Additionally, children have a higher chance of having an allergic reaction to the ingredients in chemical sunscreens, as their immune systems are immature. Therefore, children should use products that only contain physical sunscreen ingredients or have minimal chemical ingredients. When doing so, using a product that blocks UVA and UVB, is easy to spread evenly, and washes off well with light water cleansing is good.
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