Sunscreen: When to apply and why you need it.

Sunscreen

Why you need it and when to apply it in your skin care routine.

We all know that we should use sunscreen, but do you really USE it like you should, sadly that would be a no for many.

I had my eyes opened to sunscreen and its use after I had a small dry spot on my nose that would not go away, no matter what lotions or oils I used.  Of course I called my doctor and he referred me to a dermatologist.  One look and he said it was Actinic Keratosis, abnormal growth of cells caused by sun damage, the most common precancer form.

No one wants Skin Cancer.  We are all susceptible to it and while we know to apply sunscreen, many are not applying it correctly.

Wait a minute, what?

Yes, many do not apply it correctly – more on that in a minute.

Let’s start with where in your skin care / makeup routine Sunscreen goes.

After you have washed your face, first apply your serums/moisturizer, THEN Sunscreen (yes apply it daily!), then your primer or makeup.  

I am currently using Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch, bought from a drug store. As of this writing, I am loving it. Of course I want to try others when I am done, any suggestions, drop it in the comments!

It is recommended to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, I have seen products on the market that claim they can be applied on top of makeup without ruining/wiping off your makeup, I personally have not tried these, have you? Let me know your feelings below.  

If I know I am going to be outside I pretty much skip the makeup, except mascara, I cant live without mascara.  If you still need some tint to balance skin tone, I would suggest a tinted sunscreen.

Applying your sunscreen, you ready for this…

Have you ever read the directions? Apply Generously….GENEROUSLY

Your sunscreen should not last months upon months (sorry to burst your bubble) to be honest you shouldn’t need to worry if it is expired because you should have used it up easily.  

For your face and neck you should be using at least 1 teaspoon like this 

This same amount should be used per arm, leg and the front / back of your torso. When out in the sun, about 7 teaspoons worth every two hours, now you see why your sunscreen should not reach its expiry date.  That is only counting for one person!

Remember to read the directions, aside from applying generously, each one will have different timelines with swimming/sweating like waterproof/water resistant types.  However if none of those conditions apply, REAPPLY at least every 2 hours.

SPF 30 and up is your best choice, there are many products out there to pick from.  I have used a vast array and I can certainly say, the more expensive is just the same as the inexpensive brand.  With the amount that you should be using, the inexpensive brands are your biggest bang for your buck.

Mineral vs Chemical, that will come down to your personal choice, would you like to see a blog on the differences? Let me know in the comments.

Whichever you choose, know that any sunscreen is better than none.

I am not a dermatologist or esthetician, everyone should do their own research for what they require.  However, what you need to know is that Sunscreen is important!

Information sourced from Government of Canada, click here.

XO

Tanya