How you apply your sunscreen can make or break its effectiveness. Since sunscreen is vital to protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays, and avoiding skin damage, premature aging and skin cancer, we’ve put together some tips to make proper application of sunscreen a breeze. Take a moment to read and share with your family and friends to help keep them safe, too!

• Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before exposure to the sun. It takes that long to absorb and start working.
• Make sure you’re using enough sunscreen. Most adults need about an ounce to fully cover their skin. It’s about as much as you can hold in your cupped palm.
• Apply sunscreen to all of your exposed skin. Many people forget spots like the backs of their hands or their neck. Your face, ears, neck and entire body should be covered in sunscreen if exposed.
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours if you’re not sweating or swimming. All sunscreen needs reapplication during prolonged sun exposure. If you’re sweating or swimming you need to reapply as soon as you dry off.
• Use a fresh product. Expiration dates matter! Expired sunscreen may not be effective.
• Rub sunscreen thoroughly into your skin when applying. You want it to saturate your skin – so the combination of using enough product, rubbing it in and waiting before heading outside will maximize effectiveness.
• Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher.
• Don’t forget your scalp – many people experience sunburns on their scalp because they forget to apply sunscreen or wear a hat. If you have thinning hair you may be especially vulnerable to scalp sunburn.
• Lips need sunscreen, too! Our advice is to apply a lip balm rated SPF 15 or higher.
• Wear sunscreen year-round. Your skin is vulnerable to the sun’s rays every time you step outdoors. Any exposed skin should be covered in sunscreen no matter what time of year or what you’re doing.

At Dermatology Consultants offices we carry many sunscreen products to keep your skin safe all year. Stop by to purchase the best sunscreens for your face and body.