Applying sunscreen correctly on your face involves choosing the right product, using enough, and reapplying regularly to ensure adequate protection from harmful UV rays. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. Choose the Right Sunscreen
- Broad Spectrum Protection: Select a sunscreen labeled "broad spectrum," which protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
- SPF 30 or Higher: Opt for a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks 98%.
- Formula: Choose a formula suitable for your skin type. Options include:
- Oily/Acne-prone skin: Look for oil-free or non-comedogenic formulas.
- Dry skin: Choose hydrating sunscreens with moisturizers.
- Sensitive skin: Select fragrance-free and hypoallergenic options.
2. Apply Sunscreen Before Makeup
- Order of Application: Apply sunscreen as the last step in your skincare routine before applying makeup. This ensures it can properly bond with the skin.
- Quantity: Use approximately a half teaspoon (about the size of a nickel) for your face and neck. Many people don't use enough sunscreen.
3. Application Technique
- Dot Technique: Dot the sunscreen on your forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and neck.
- Even Distribution: Gently massage the sunscreen into your skin, ensuring even coverage. Pay attention to often-missed areas like the hairline, ears, and around the eyes (being careful not to get it in your eyes).
- Absorption: Allow the sunscreen to absorb completely into your skin before applying makeup. This usually takes about 15 minutes.
4. Reapplication is Key
- Frequency: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, especially if you are sweating or swimming.
- Reapplying Over Makeup: If you're wearing makeup, use a sunscreen spray or a sunscreen powder for easy reapplication. Alternatively, you can lightly pat a cream or liquid sunscreen on top of your makeup with a makeup sponge.
- Consider SPF Makeup: For added protection, consider using makeup products with SPF, but don't rely on these alone; they generally don't provide sufficient protection.
5. Don't Forget These Areas
- Eyelids: Use a sunscreen specifically formulated for the eye area or a mineral sunscreen.
- Lips: Apply a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher.
- Neck and Ears: These areas are often neglected, so make sure to include them in your sunscreen application.
Summary
To correctly apply sunscreen on your face, choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen, apply generously to clean skin before makeup, ensure even coverage on all areas, and reapply every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming.
