How To Apply Sunscreen

We’ve been experiencing a heat wave in the Pacific Northwest (no complaints here!) so it seems an opportune time to discuss sunscreen; more specifically, how to apply sunscreen.

You most likely already appreciate the importance of daily sunscreen use year round. Sunscreen protects against burning UVB rays and deeper penetrating UVA rays, helping to minimize the development of skin against skin cancer and premature aging. You can maximize its effectiveness by applying it correctly.

Here’s how to apply sunscreen the right way:

1. SPF 30+. Choose a sunscreen that has an SPF of 30 or higher that provides broad-spectrum coverage, meaning that it protects you from UVA and UVB rays. Select one that is water resistant if you will be swimming or perspiring.
2. Apply Early. Apply sunscreen generously before going outdoors. Most experts recommend applying about 15 minutes prior to outdoor exposure to allow for absorption.
3. Apply Enough. Most adults need at least one ounce of sunscreen (a shot glass full) to fully cover all exposed areas of your body, ½ teaspoon for the face. Rub the sunscreen thoroughly to all bare skin, remembering your neck, face, ears, tops of your feet and legs. Don’t forget your lips! In order to ensure that you’ve covered all areas, it’s not a bad idea to wait a few minutes and then reapply.
4. Reapply.  The general recommendation is to reapply sunscreen at least every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessively sweating.
5. Layer Correctly. If you layer skin care treatments, apply sunscreen as the last product in your routine. If you are wearing make-up on top, wait 3–5 minutes for the sunscreen to set before applying foundation.

If your foundation, BB cream, or tinted moisturizer contains sunscreen too, that’s fantastic as layering on sunscreen delivers additional protection. You may want to consider applying an antioxidant formulation like our Bespoke Vitamin C Serum to skin under your sunscreen. Antioxidants protect skin against the free radical damage generated by UV rays. The combination is an ideal way to get the most out of your morning skin care routine.