How should I use sunscreen?The sun produces ultraviolet (UV) radiation that can harm the skin.
Using sunscreen is an important part of protecting your skin from the sun – along with a hat, protective clothing, shade and sunglasses. But it is also important to use sunscreen properly, so that you get the maximum protection offered by the product. |
When should I use sunscreen?
Is it daytime? Will you be outdoors (for more than a walk to the letterbox)? Regardless of your skin type, wearing sunscreen helps protect your skin from the sun’s UV radiation.
At some times or in some situations and locations, sunscreen is especially important:
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Which sunscreen should I choose?
There are some fundamentals to choosing a sunscreen, but also a lot of scope for personal preference.
It’s important to choose a sunscreen that provides broad spectrum protection. Broad spectrum sunscreen helps protect your skin from both UVA and UVB radiation. In Australia, broad spectrum is a compulsory requirement for all products that make an SPF claim except for colour cosmetic and lip products with SPF claims of less than 30.
It’s important to choose a sunscreen that provides broad spectrum protection. Broad spectrum sunscreen helps protect your skin from both UVA and UVB radiation. In Australia, broad spectrum is a compulsory requirement for all products that make an SPF claim except for colour cosmetic and lip products with SPF claims of less than 30.
If you will be taking part in activity that exposes you to the sun for greater periods, such as exercising or spending time at the beach, choose a primary sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. If your sun exposure will be a more incidental part of your day, a lower SPF product may be suitable, including a secondary sunscreen. (In Australia, sunscreens are classified as ‘primary’ if their main function is for sun protection of the skin, or ‘secondary’/’cosmetic’ if their main function is not as a sunscreen but they also provide sun protection. Secondary sunscreens include products such as moisturisers, make-up and lip balms.)
Water resistance is also important when you will be spending time in the water, or sweating a lot. |
Higher SPFs – can I stay in the sun for longer? Make sure that you don’t use higher SPF sunscreens as a licence for hours of fun in the sun. Or as a signal to reapply less frequently. Higher SPF sunscreens prevent more UV radiation from reaching your skin, but they still need to be applied liberally and reapplied regularly. |
Other factors can be a matter of personal preference, such as lotion, gel, roll-on or spray format. It may be easier to apply gels or sprays to hairier areas of the body, and sprays can be good for hard-to-reach areas such as the back. There are also products designed for sensitive skin, children, outdoor workers, sport, and other specific uses, such as also repelling insects.
Most importantly, use a sunscreen that you like and that fits your budget. A good sunscreen choice is one you want to apply to your skin, and reapply.
Most importantly, use a sunscreen that you like and that fits your budget. A good sunscreen choice is one you want to apply to your skin, and reapply.
How much sunscreen should I use?
Guidelines vary, but the answer is probably more than you are currently using!
Research has shown that many people don’t use enough sunscreen, which means that they are only benefiting from some of the protection offered by the product.
Research has shown that many people don’t use enough sunscreen, which means that they are only benefiting from some of the protection offered by the product.
A full adult body needs roughly 40ml to cover all exposed skin. For those of us without a built-in measuring device, pick the equivalent that’s easiest to visualise: a shot-glass, a cupped adult hand, a golf ball volume, or two tablespoons. Obviously, a bigger body needs more sunscreen. The Cancer Council Australia recommends using at least a teaspoon for each arm and leg, for the front and the back of the body, and half a teaspoon for the face, neck and ears. For a child, the amount of sunscreen needed varies greatly depending on their age and size. |
Not enough sunscreen! Several studies have shown that many sunscreen users apply much less sunscreen than is needed – typically from a quarter to half the recommended amount![ii] This means many users are only getting about a quarter to half the protection expected from the SPF on the product label.[iii] Because the thickness of sunscreen on your skin has a significant effect on the protection provided, it is important to use enough sunscreen to get the level of protection stated on the product label. |
You might like to work out how many applications you should be getting from your bottle of sunscreen, based on your lifestyle and the number of users. Should one bottle be lasting the whole summer?!
How should I apply sunscreen?
Your skin should be clean and dry before putting on sunscreen – unless the product is designed to be applied on wet skin.
You need to apply sunscreen before sun exposure. Check the instructions on the product label, but most suggest putting it on 15-20 minutes before.
You need to apply sunscreen before sun exposure. Check the instructions on the product label, but most suggest putting it on 15-20 minutes before.
If you are using a lotion, cream or gel, dot it over your skin and spread it lightly and evenly over the surface of your skin. If it initially appears white, wait a couple of minutes - many products are designed to become a clear film.
If you are using a spray-on sunscreen, apply until it is visible on the skin. Check the product label for the best distance away from your skin from which to spray. Don’t spray in windy conditions – your sunscreen will disappear! And don’t spray it directly onto your face; rather, spray some into your hand then spread gently but thoroughly onto your face. |
Don’t forget me! Some areas can easily be missed when applying sunscreen. Men – don’t forget your scalp, tops of ears and tops of feet. Women – don’t forget your neck and chest. Lips need protection too, so using a lip product with SPF is important. And don’t forget areas that may become exposed as your clothing moves, such as under straps and near the edges. |
Sunscreens need to be reapplied to maintain their maximum protection.
You’ve applied the proper amount of sunscreen to your skin before sun exposure, and are enjoying some time outdoors. Great! But don’t forget to reapply.
Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, or straight after swimming, sweating or towelling. This is mainly to compensate for human error, for example not using enough sunscreen or missing spots. It also allows for the product rubbing off against clothing, surfaces etc.
Even with a 4 hour water resistant sunscreen, reapply!
Getting the most from spray-on sunscreen
No one wants to be caught red-faced…or indeed red anywhere from sunburn!
Spray-on sunscreen has several great features: it dries quickly, is light on the skin, and is easy to apply, especially on hard-to-reach and hairy skin. But it is different to apply than other sunscreen formats. If you choose to use a spray-on sunscreen, you may need to take extra care that you are applying the product in the correct way, so that it is effective in protecting your skin from the sun.
Make sure you:
You’ve applied the proper amount of sunscreen to your skin before sun exposure, and are enjoying some time outdoors. Great! But don’t forget to reapply.
Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, or straight after swimming, sweating or towelling. This is mainly to compensate for human error, for example not using enough sunscreen or missing spots. It also allows for the product rubbing off against clothing, surfaces etc.
Even with a 4 hour water resistant sunscreen, reapply!
Getting the most from spray-on sunscreen
No one wants to be caught red-faced…or indeed red anywhere from sunburn!
Spray-on sunscreen has several great features: it dries quickly, is light on the skin, and is easy to apply, especially on hard-to-reach and hairy skin. But it is different to apply than other sunscreen formats. If you choose to use a spray-on sunscreen, you may need to take extra care that you are applying the product in the correct way, so that it is effective in protecting your skin from the sun.
Make sure you:
- Apply the product 15-20 minutes before going into the sun.
- Check the product label for the best distance away from your skin from which to spray.
- Give the container a good shake
- Use enough! Apply the product until it is visible on the skin. Spray sunscreens are as effective as lotions, creams and gels – they are required to undergo the same rigorous testing – but, like for lotions, creams and gels, you need to use enough.
- Rub the product in, gently, to help spread the product evenly.
- Spray in a sheltered, ventilated area. If you spray in windy conditions not all your sunscreen will make it onto your skin!
- Don’t spray directly onto your face; rather, spray some into your hand then spread gently but thoroughly onto your face.
- Don’t spray close to naked flames. Spray sunscreens in aerosol format contain flammable ingredients, as do other aerosols such as deodorants.
How should I store sunscreen?
There are three key ingredients to keep sunscreen away from: heat, light and moisture can all accelerate or cause the product to lose its desired consistency and efficacy over time.
So, keeping sunscreen in the car, on a sunny windowsill, or on a steamy bathroom shelf is probably not a good idea. If you want to carry sunscreen in your beach bag or golf bag, try to keep it as shaded as possible. |
Keep your sunscreen tightly sealed and read the label for storage directions. Always check that the expiry date has not passed.
Can I use sunscreen on my baby?
Your baby’s skin is sensitive and can burn easily. Infants 0-12 months should be well protected from the sun at all times. Parents and carers should be mindful of the daily UV forecast and plan for their infant's sun protection needs in advance on days when the UV index is 3 or higher.
Overexposure to UV during childhood is considered a major factor in determining future skin cancer risk.[iv] Sun damage is also cumulative.
Shade and clothing are the best ways to protect your infant from the sun. During summer, plan your daily activities to minimise your infant’s time outside during the middle of the day.
Properly protecting your infant with physical protection – shade, clothing and a broad brimmed hat – is always the best first-line defense against sun exposure. You can then use sunscreen as a further protection on those areas of your infant’s skin which are exposed to the sun.
You can also use sunscreen on your infant’s exposed skin, important for when UV levels are three and above, or for unavoidable long periods of sun exposure. The Cancer Council Australia and the Australasian College of Dermatologists identify no evidence of harm from using sunscreen on infants, although infants may develop minor skin irritation.[v] If your baby’s skin is sensitive, try a sunscreen formulated for sensitive skin and try a different product if there are any signs of irritation.
For more detailed advice on sun protection and infants refer to the following, which has been endorsed by the Australasian College of Dermatologists - http://wiki.cancer.org.au/policy/Position_statement_-_Sun_protection_and_infants_(0-12_months)
A small amount of UV exposure is considered safe and healthy for infants when UV levels are less than three.
Overexposure to UV during childhood is considered a major factor in determining future skin cancer risk.[iv] Sun damage is also cumulative.
Shade and clothing are the best ways to protect your infant from the sun. During summer, plan your daily activities to minimise your infant’s time outside during the middle of the day.
Properly protecting your infant with physical protection – shade, clothing and a broad brimmed hat – is always the best first-line defense against sun exposure. You can then use sunscreen as a further protection on those areas of your infant’s skin which are exposed to the sun.
You can also use sunscreen on your infant’s exposed skin, important for when UV levels are three and above, or for unavoidable long periods of sun exposure. The Cancer Council Australia and the Australasian College of Dermatologists identify no evidence of harm from using sunscreen on infants, although infants may develop minor skin irritation.[v] If your baby’s skin is sensitive, try a sunscreen formulated for sensitive skin and try a different product if there are any signs of irritation.
For more detailed advice on sun protection and infants refer to the following, which has been endorsed by the Australasian College of Dermatologists - http://wiki.cancer.org.au/policy/Position_statement_-_Sun_protection_and_infants_(0-12_months)
A small amount of UV exposure is considered safe and healthy for infants when UV levels are less than three.
References
[i] Global Solar UV Index: A Practical Guide. 2002 A joint recommendation of the World Health Organization, World Meteorological Organization, United Nations Environment Programme, and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection. Accessed at www.who.int/uv/publications/en/UVIGuide.pdf (Accessed 6 October 2016)
[ii] Diffey, B., and Ferguson, J. 2009, “Assessment of Photoprotective Properties of Sunscreens”, in Clinical Guide to Sunscreens and Photoprotection, eds Lim, H. and Draelos, Z., Informa Healthcare, pages 53-63; and references 34-40 therein. Accessed at www.anme.com.mx/libros/Clinical%20Guide%20to%20Sunscreens%20and%20Photoprotection.pdf (Accessed 11 August 2016)
[iii] Cole, C. et al 2011, “The relevance of high SPF products: high SPF sunscreens help compensate under-application”, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 64, Issue 2, Supplement 1, Page AB139. Summary available at www.neutrogenamd.com/text/content/downloads/Ouyang_2011_HighSPF.pdf (Accessed 11 August 2016).
[iv] Balk, S.J. 2011, “Ultraviolet Radiation: A Hazard to Children and Adolescents”, Pediatrics, Volume 127, Issue 3. http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/127/3/e791.full (Accessed 5 August 2016).
[v] Position Statement ‘Sun protection and infants (0-12 months)’ 2015, The Cancer Council Australian and the Australasian College of Dermatologists
[i] Global Solar UV Index: A Practical Guide. 2002 A joint recommendation of the World Health Organization, World Meteorological Organization, United Nations Environment Programme, and the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection. Accessed at www.who.int/uv/publications/en/UVIGuide.pdf (Accessed 6 October 2016)
[ii] Diffey, B., and Ferguson, J. 2009, “Assessment of Photoprotective Properties of Sunscreens”, in Clinical Guide to Sunscreens and Photoprotection, eds Lim, H. and Draelos, Z., Informa Healthcare, pages 53-63; and references 34-40 therein. Accessed at www.anme.com.mx/libros/Clinical%20Guide%20to%20Sunscreens%20and%20Photoprotection.pdf (Accessed 11 August 2016)
[iii] Cole, C. et al 2011, “The relevance of high SPF products: high SPF sunscreens help compensate under-application”, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 64, Issue 2, Supplement 1, Page AB139. Summary available at www.neutrogenamd.com/text/content/downloads/Ouyang_2011_HighSPF.pdf (Accessed 11 August 2016).
[iv] Balk, S.J. 2011, “Ultraviolet Radiation: A Hazard to Children and Adolescents”, Pediatrics, Volume 127, Issue 3. http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/127/3/e791.full (Accessed 5 August 2016).
[v] Position Statement ‘Sun protection and infants (0-12 months)’ 2015, The Cancer Council Australian and the Australasian College of Dermatologists