There aren’t many certainties in life, but one you can count on is that if you go out in the sun without sunscreen on, your face and any other exposed areas of skin will eventually get burnt. The wearing of face sunscreen is an essential practice for protecting your skin and preventing damage, and as such, there are certain dos and don’ts that need to be followed.
Finding the right product, of course, matters, but it’s also crucial to focus on the things you should be doing and the things to avoid. So if you’re ready, let’s get the lowdown on face suncream.
The Do’s of Face Sunscreen Use
So, what are the things you SHOULD be doing when using face sunscreen? There are plenty to think about, so let’s waste no time in laying them out clearly.
Do: Choose the Right SPF
For the best protection, you should select a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. This level blocks about 97% of UVB rays, providing adequate protection for everyday activities. If you spend more time outdoors, that’s when you should perhaps consider a higher SPF.
Do: Apply Enough of the Product
Even with all the info freely available, most people still don’t use enough sunscreen. For the face alone, a teaspoon is a good benchmark. This will ensure that you get a layer thick enough to provide the advertised SPF.
Do: Use Your Face Sun Cream Daily
Sun damage can occur even on cloudy days or through windows, meaning that it’s not just a product to think about during the summer. As such, you should make sunscreen a part of your daily skincare routine, regardless of the weather.
Do: Consider The Type of Skin You Have
When buying sunscreen for the face, in particular, your skin type plays a big part. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, look for sunscreens labeled “non-comedogenic,” meaning they won’t clog pores. For dry skin, a moisturizing sunscreen might be the type to go for.
The Don’ts of Sunscreen For Face
As mentioned before, there are also quite a few things to avoid doing to make sure your skin isn’t unnecessarily put in danger. Let’s take a look at them now.
Don’t: Forget to Reapply Every Two Hours
It’s so important to remember that sunscreen isn’t a one-and-done deal. It’s protection wears off! Reapply every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming, even if the product is water-resistant. Your skin will thank you for it.
Don’t: Ignore Broad-Spectrum Protection
UVA rays contribute to aging and skin cancer, while UVB rays cause sunburn. It’s pretty surprising, but true, that some sunscreens only protect against one type! Ensure your sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection to shield against both UVA and UVB rays.
Don’t: Rely Solely on Makeup with SPF
While some makeup products contain SPF, you shouldn’t immediately assume that you’re fully protected in the way you need to be. The thing is, they are usually not applied heavily enough to provide adequate protection. That’s why you need to wear a separate sunscreen under your makeup.
Don’t: Forget About Other Forms of Sun Protection
Using sunscreen for the face is non-negotiable, sure, but it’s not the only weapon in your arsenal. You can bolster your protection from UV damage with the use of hats and sunglasses for added protection, or why not wear some loose clothing that will also keep you cool?
Used Properly, Face Sunscreen Gives You Everything You Need
When you integrate these do’s and don’ts into your routine, you majorly enhance your skin’s protection – but it’s not going to do its job in the way it’s supposed to if you don’t follow these guidelines.
Remember, the best sunscreen is the one you are able to use on a consistent basis, so find a product that fits your skin type and lifestyle.
