We all know how important it is to wear sun protection, but knowing how much sunscreen to use on your face and body is just as important as picking the right factor.
Even when we're vigilant about applying the best facial sunscreen - or body sun protection - it's trickier to apply the correct amount. This can have a huge impact on the efficacy of suncream, meaning you're not getting the SPF factor you think you are.
If you'd like to ensure you are benefiting from the true level of protection you've chosen, we've asked two skin experts to explain exactly how much sunscreen to use for your face and body. And it turns out, there's a simple rule we can all follow.
How much sunscreen should you use for your face and body?
The recommended amount is approximately a teaspoon for your face and neck - but there's no need to bring any cutlery to the beach; the 'two-finger' rule is an easy guide. Apply a line of suncream along the length of your index and middle fingers and apply it to your face and neck, not forgetting your ears and around your eyes.
In terms of body application, "the 'two finger' rule can also be used for each body part, too," explains Dermatologist and Childs Farm Ambassador Dr. Anita Sturnham. "A simpler way is to ‘colour in’ any visible skin so that you can’t see your own skin and then massage in until absorbed." Looking for a specific amount? It's roughly 6-8 tablespoons for the whole body.
Unfortunately, "Most people apply only about a quarter of the recommended amount of suncream, yet still believe they’re adequately protected," warns Dr Angela Tewari, Consultant Dermatologist at The Lister Hospital. "This means that SPF 50 suncream often provides only SPF 10-15 protection - applying enough product is crucial to ensure levels of protection are at the correct amount."
Formula and texture matter too - as it's generally easier to ensure you achieve a good coverage using a creams than it is with a mist. Most experts recommend using a cream or lotion texture for your first, all-over application of the day, then topping up with sprays, sticks and mists for convenience.
Ultrasun are known to make some of the best, high-factor SPFs in the business, formulated with the brands lamellar technology that binds to the skin, helping it stay super water and transfer-resistant.
Brilliant for the beach or more glamorous occasions, this light oil leaves a non-greasy sheen on the skin that's so flattering, plus it spreads around beautifully, making it easier to achieve even coverage.
Portable, solid SPFs are booming as we all become savvier with sun protection and the need to top up regularly. This one's a favourite of ours, as it's invisible, doesn't mess up makeup or look greasy, and is super portable.
How often should we reapply suncream?
Wondering how to reapply sunscreen to make sure that SPF level sticks around all day? "The lower the SPF and the longer the time since application, the fewer UVB rays will be filtered," explains Tewari. "Sun cream should be reapplied regularly every two hours to maintain optimal protection, both on the face and the body."
If you're in the sea or a pool, you might need to do it more often. Turnham warns, "Sunscreens that are not water-resistant may wash off when exposed to water or sweat, reducing their protective qualities. Even water-resistant formulas require reapplication after swimming or heavy sweating, typically every two hours," she says.
So that's two vital learnings and two easy-to-remember rules: two fingers for application, and two hours for top-ups. Simple but effective!
