Skin Care

How To Use Sunscreen Correctly?

Sunscreen or moisturiser – what goes on first? “Am I applying the sunscreen properly?” Or is there any specific way to apply sunscreen? These questions may have crossed your mind, especially if you are a beginner in the world of skincare. Trust us! We all have been there! Sunscreen is a non-negotiable skincare step that shields us from the harmful UV rays, sunburns, pre-mature skin ageing, and more! Be it walking outside on a cloudy day or sitting in your car, you can’t practically think of stepping out without wearing sunscreen. While using sunscreen is important, applying it correctly is equally important. Hence, to help you reap the maximum benefits, we’re here with this guide on how to use sunscreen correctly. In fact, in this detailed guide, we will also discuss the uses of sunscreen, the correct order of applying it on the face, how frequently you should apply sunscreen for optimal protection, and more! So, stick to the end and learn how to use sunscreen.

Uses of sunscreen

Knowing the various uses of sunscreen is essential, especially if you are a newbie in skincare.

  • Sunscreens are used to safeguard the skin from the negative effects of UVA and UVB rays. The presence of active ingredients in sunscreen either reflects the radiation or soak the sun’s UV radiation, converts it into heat, and later releases it from the skin.
  • One of the primary uses of sunscreen includes preventing pre-mature skin ageing, i.e., early onset of the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
  • Other uses of sunscreen include lowering the chance of skin cancer, sunburn, sun tan, and photosensitivity (a condition where the skin becomes sensitive to sun light and other forms of UV rays and burns easily).

Step-by-step guide on how to apply sunscreen on the face, lips, and body

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use sunscreen on the face, lips, and body:

Step 1: Kick-start your skincare routine with a cleansed face. Use a cleanser that suits your skin type.

Step 2: Now, move on to apply products with thinnest consistency to improve product absorbability into the skin. You should keep products with thicker textures for later steps of skincare. Apply toner or essence, face serum, and eye serum.

Step 3: This step should focus on moisturising your skin. Pick a moisturiser as per your skin needs and type and nourish your skin thoroughly.

Step 4: How to apply sunscreen on the face, you ask? Take the required amount of sunscreen on your palm. Now, spread the product all over your face, neck, and areas that will get sun exposure.

Step 5: Rub sunscreen into the skin thoroughly. In case the product comes into contact with the eyes, rinse thoroughly with water.

Step 6: Use SPF-infused lip balm and sunscreen or SPF-infused body lotion to protect your lips and body respectively.

Step 7: If you use spray sunscreen, shake the bottle well before using it. Hold the bottle from a distance and spray the product on the skin just like you use face mist. Apply generously.

Step 8: Wait for a few minutes before applying makeup. You should apply sunscreen at least 30 minutes before heading outside.

Now that you know how to use sunscreen on the face, lips, and body, you can keep sun-induced skin damage at bay.

How much sunscreen should you apply to your skin?

How much sunscreen is enough to give you optimal protection from harmful UV rays? Experts recommend using 0.4 ounces (approx. 11 grams) and 1 ounce (approx. 30 grams) of sunscreen to cover the body. So, apply a generous amount of sunscreen on your face, neck, and areas that are exposed to the sun.

Note, don’t apply sunscreen on infants (below 6 months) unless prescribed by a doctor. Keep infants out of the sun's rays and wear protective clothing like hat and full-sleeves clothes (applicable for adults) for best sun protection.

How frequently should you apply sunscreen on your skin?

You have got your answers to how to apply sunblock on the face, right? Now, let’s move to the next question - how frequently should you apply sunscreen to get complete sun protection? Here’s the answer:

  • Experts recommend applying sunscreen daily, even if it is cloudy.
  • After applying the first round of sunscreen while finishing your AM skincare, try to reapply it after every two hours.
  • Reapply sunscreen immediately after sweating, swimming, or engaging in any water activity.

Pro tip: Choose Broad Spectrum SPF 30 or higher for best results.

L’Oréal Paris UV Defender range consists of a wide assortment of sunscreen with SPF 50+ PA++++ broad-spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, and Long-Range UV.

We hope, we have answered your queries regarding what are the benefits of using sunscreen, how to use sunscreen on the face, and more. Read the above-mentioned steps and details carefully to give your skin optimal sun protection. Need help with your skincare routine? Head towards the L’Oréal Paris Skin Genius tool, sign up for a virtual skin diagnosis, and get personalised skincare regimens approved by the International Board of Dermatologists at L'Oréal Paris.

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One that does it all - keep us oil-free, prevent sun-induced damages like sunburn &amp; age-spots, and remain resistant through the day. But how do you find the &lsquo;best sunscreen&rsquo; that caters effectively to all your needs? And how do you learn to navigate through the different types of sunscreens out there? 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