6 Sunscreen Rules You Can’t Ignore

Credit Photo: Unsplash cherrydeck

Summer may be behind us, but autumn rains are no excuse to put your SPF back on the shelf. This topic has been discussed countless times, and to some it might even feel a little overdone.

But let’s be honest: when it comes to the health of our complexion, it never loses its relevance. So let’s go over the key rules of sun protection once again — and bust a few common myths along the way.

Use enough 

Don’t skimp when it comes to safeguarding your skin. A simple hack for the face is to squeeze out two finger lengths of lotion — along your index and middle finger. That’s the right amount to ensure proper coverage and defense.

For the body, the quantity will vary depending on how much skin is exposed. Instead of trying to calculate in milliliters, follow the “two tablespoons rule” — roughly that’s how much you need to cover your entire body each time you put it on.

Don’t rush it

Your sunblock should be applied at least 15 minutes before heading outside, so it has time to properly bond with your skin. If you smooth it on right as you step out the door, it won’t be as effective. But even if you’re applying it at the last minute while riding the elevator, it’s still far better than skipping it altogether.

Refresh regularly

Many people think using SPF once in the morning is enough — but that’s just a myth. If you’re spending time outdoors, you should top it up every 1.5–2 hours (check the product packaging for the exact interval) and continue doing so until sunset.

If you’re indoors most of the day and only outside on your way to and from work, make sure to re-do your layer before leaving the office — as long as the sun hasn’t gone down yet.

Not just cream

For many people — especially those who wear makeup daily — a powder or foundation with SPF can be a great option for touch-ups. But keep in mind: just like regular sun protection, these also need to be refreshed every two hours to stay effective.

Don’t overlook the details

Don’t forget about your ears, lips, hands, and any other area not covered by clothing. For lips, keep an SPF balm in your bag — most of them contain SPF 15 — and reapply it throughout the day.

Even on rainy days

Remember: UV rays can penetrate through clouds, even on the gloomiest autumn days. So don’t skip your shield — sun defense should stay a part of your routine no matter the weather.

SPF isn’t a trend or a marketing trick. It’s the foundation of healthy skin and an essential part of your daily ritual. Take care of yourself in any weather — and your complexion will thank you with a healthy glow for years to come.

Author: Kateryna Zakharova