Sunscreen Dos and Don’ts: 5 Vital Tips for Effective Sun Protection
SPF season is in full speed, as we are spending more time outside in the heat. While wearing sunscreen is essentially something you need to do all year round, now when the days are sunnier and hotter, you need to pay extra attention. Although sunscreen is an important daily need for our skin, there are still many myths and misunderstandings about its proper application. In addition, there is a wide variety of tips and tricks shared online, but which of them are actually right? If you have ever wondered that, then this article will be of interest to you. Today, we will take a good look at the most important sunscreen dos and don’ts, so you stay safe and protected in the summer.
Let’s explore the most important sunscreen dos and don’ts
In this article
Sunscreen Dos and Don’ts: 5 Vital Tips for Effective Sun Protection
#Do use a broad-spectrum sunscreen
One of the key rules when wearing SPF for effective sun protection is to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen. It must effectively protect against both UVA and UVB light. UVA rays can penetrate deep into our skin, causing premature aging and increasing the risk of skin cancer. On the other hand, UVB rays are the ones that primarily cause sunburns. By choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen, you will be adequately protected from both types of harmful rays. So, when choosing sun protection, always keep that in mind.
You need a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB light
#Do follow a foolproof method of application
Another important thing when it comes to wearing SPF is to follow a foolproof method of applying sunscreen. For example, you can try the “13-point technique.” This technique involves applying small dots of sunscreen to different parts of the face and then blending for even coverage. This way, each area of the face is protected, and the sunscreen is evenly distributed. You can also apply this technique to your body!
Find a sunscreen application technique that works for you
#Do reapply every few hours
It is extremely important to reapply sunscreen every few hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Sunscreen can wear off and thus become less effective over time, so it is extremely important to reapply regularly to maintain adequate protection. DOnt think that just because you applied sunscreen in the morning or before going to the beach, you are protected for the whole day. That is far from the truth!
Reapplying sunscreen is just as important as applying sunscreen
#Don’t use sunscreens with low SPF
One of the main don’ts you need to consider when wearing SPF is to avoid using sunscreens with low protection. Low SPF sunscreens do not provide sufficient protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Therefore, it is important to choose a sunscreen with a high SPF value to provide adequate protection for your skin. SPF 30 or higher is recommended by dermatologists for effective skin protection from the sun’s harmful rays. By choosing a sunscreen with a higher SPF, you can reduce your risk of sunburn, premature aging and skin cancer. So, don’t think that SPF 15 is okay when you are under the beach umbrella, but that is not true!
Using sunscreens with low SPF is not going to protect your skin effectively
#Don’t forget less exposed areas
Another common mistake to avoid is forgetting to apply sunscreen to less exposed parts of your body. While it’s easy to remember to apply sunscreen to the face and hands, areas like the ears, lips, and back of the neck are often overlooked. These areas are equally susceptible to sun damage and should be protected by applying a generous amount of sunscreen. Additionally, using a lip balm with SPF can help protect the delicate skin on your lips from the sun’s harmful rays. By making sure all exposed parts of your body are covered with sunscreen, you can minimize the risk of sunburn and long-term damage.
Do not overlook less exposed areas of your body like the back of your neck
#Don’t layer sunscreens
Another important thing not to overlook when it comes to wearing SPF is that you should not apply multiple layers of different sunscreens. While it may seem like using multiple sunscreens would provide extra protection, it can actually reduce their effectiveness and cause the product to peel. When different sunscreen formulas are layered on top of each other, they can interact in a way that compromises their ability to block UV rays. Instead, it is recommended to choose one sunscreen that offers broad-spectrum protection and apply it liberally to all exposed areas of the body. By following this tip, you can ensure that your sunscreen is working optimally to protect your skin!
Do not layer different sunscreens on top of one another
Now you know all about sunscreen’s dos and don’ts for the summer season!
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