Apply sunscreen to your face correctly for optimal sun protection. Follow these simple steps for effective application.
Preparing Your Skin
Before applying sunscreen, ensure your skincare routine is complete.
- Cleanse: Start with a clean face using your regular cleanser.
- Tone (Optional): Apply toner if you use one in your routine.
- Moisturize: Apply your daily moisturizer.
- Wait: Allow a few minutes for your skincare products to fully absorb before applying sunscreen. This ensures better sunscreen penetration and prevents pilling.
Applying Sunscreen
- Quantity: Use a blueberry-sized amount of sunscreen for your face and neck. This is sufficient to provide adequate protection. Don't forget your ears!
- Method: Gently rub the sunscreen into your skin using upward strokes. Ensure even coverage across all areas, paying attention to often-missed spots like around the nose, hairline, and ears. If using a spray sunscreen, apply it to your hands first, then rub it onto your face.
- Areas to Cover: Remember to protect your ears, lips (use a lip balm with SPF), and the often-neglected scalp, especially if you have thinning hair or a hair parting.
- Reapplication: Reapply sunscreen every two hours when you're outdoors, and every four hours indoors. Reapplication is crucial after swimming or sweating.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
The best sunscreen for your face depends on your skin type. Creams are generally recommended for dry skin, while gels might suit oily skin better. Always choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
Additional Tips from Experts:
- Complete Coverage: Cover your entire face, neck, and hands. (Source: Allure.com)
- Avoid Direct Spraying: Don't spray sunscreen directly onto your face; apply to your hands first. (Sources: Byrde.com, New York Times)
- Even Skin Tone: Sunscreen application can promote an even skin tone and help combat visible signs of aging. (Source: St. Botanica)
