Discover the best sunscreen recommendations and application techniques to protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays.
Sun protection is absolutely crucial for our overall health and well-being because the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause serious damage to our skin, eyes, and even our immune system. Too much exposure to these rays can lead to sunburn, premature aging, eye issues, and even skin cancer. Shockingly, the World Health Organization reports that 4 out of 5 cases of skin cancer could have been prevented, as most UV damage is avoidable. In this comprehensive guide in 2 parts, we’ll explore effective ways to shield ourselves from the sun’s harmful effects, including the use of sunscreen as your best ally in sun protection.
My Sunscreen Recommendations
We know there are many types of skin, including dry, normal, combination, oily, and sensitive, which can range from dry to oily. In this post, I’ll focus on recommending sunscreens for dry and oily skin because I believe that by addressing these two types, my readers will be able to decide what’s best for their skin. Plus, a lot of what I read and watched online about sunscreens for sensitive skin didn’t hold up in practice when I tried them. So even with research, you’ll have to test until you find what works better for you.
Normal to Dry Skin
Skin Aqua UV Super Moisture Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
Bioré UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence SPF 50+ PA++++
Supergoop Triple Prep Weightless Multitasking Moisturizer SPF 40 PA+++
Combination to Oily Skin
Skin Aqua UV Super Moisture Gel SPF 50+ PA++++
Superggop! Mineral Mattescreen SPF 40 PA+++
Skinceuticals Blemish + Age UV Defense
Sunscreen Application and Reapplication
We need to apply sunscreen to all of our skin that is exposed to sunlight. Not only the face and neck. The right amount of sunscreen for the face and neck depends on various factors, including the size of these parts, as well as the sunscreen’s SPF. However, a general guideline is to apply about a nickel-sized amount (approximately 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon) for the face and an additional amount for the neck. I use the 3-finger rule which I will explain below.
Here’s a breakdown:
Face: Use enough sunscreen to cover your entire face, including your forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and ears. Apply it evenly, making sure not to miss any areas.
Neck: After applying sunscreen to your face, apply an additional amount to your neck. The neck is often neglected but is susceptible to sun damage, so it’s essential to protect it as well.
The 3-finger rule and additional sun protection tips:
The 3-finger sunscreen rule is a simple guideline to help ensure you apply an adequate amount of sunscreen to your face. Here’s how it works:
1. Squeeze out enough sunscreen to cover the length of three of your fingers.
2. Apply the sunscreen of 2 fingers on your face and the third on your neck.
The idea behind this rule is to use a sufficient quantity of sunscreen to provide effective protection against harmful UV rays. Many people tend to underapply sunscreen, which can result in inadequate protection. By using the 3-finger rule, you’re more likely to apply an adequate amount to shield your skin from sun damage.
Keep in mind that if you’re using makeup or other skincare products with SPF, they may not provide adequate sun protection on their own. It’s still recommended to use a dedicated sunscreen underneath these products for complete protection.
Also, if you’re spending an extended period outdoors or playing water activities, it’s essential to reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you’re sweating heavily or swimming, regardless of the initial amount applied.
Conclusion
The repercussions of UV overexposure, including sunburn, premature aging, and the risk of skin cancer, underscore the importance of integrating sun protection into our daily routines. As emphasized in the article, when I bring my sunscreen recommendations and application techniques, choosing the right sunscreen tailored to individual skin types is crucial, whether it’s for dry, oily, or combination skin.
Proper application and reapplication techniques, such as the 3-finger rule and consistent use regardless of makeup or SPF-containing products, further enhance protection efficacy. By prioritizing sun protection and following recommended practices, we can mitigate the risks associated with UV damage, ensuring healthier and radiant skin for the long term.
