Squeeze, slather, done\u2026right? Sunscreen application, like most things in life, isn\u2019t as simple as it seems and nuance is required to adequately protect yourself from harmful UV rays. Luckily, it\u2019s also not rocket science. With a little extra attention to how you\u2019re applying sunscreen for your day-to-day life and beachy outings, you can easily increase your defenses against sun damage. We\u2019ve got a quick rundown of SPF rules to live by to become a protection pro with bragging rights. <\/p>\n\n\n
It\u2019s<\/span> time to bust out those measuring spoons because one of the biggest misconceptions on sunscreen application is the sheer <\/span><\/span>volume<\/span><\/span> needed for adequate coverage\u2014and <\/span>it\u2019s<\/span> likely more than you think. According to the <\/span><\/span>Skin Cancer Foundation,<\/span><\/span><\/a> \u201cyou should use approximately two milligrams of sunscreen per square centimeter of skin,\u201d which is equivalent to two tablespoons or enough to fill a shot glass to cover your face and body. A nickel-sized dollop is needed for the face and neck alone. And <\/span>don\u2019t<\/span> forget the scalp, ears and lips! <\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n Sun protection is a marathon, not a sprint. The <\/span>American Cancer Society<\/span><\/a> states that you\u2019ll need to reapply sunscreen at least every two hours when being exposed to sunlight\u2014yes, even indoors. Planning on swimming or working up a sweat outdoors? You\u2019ll want to reapply more frequently. \u201c Even water-resistant sunscreens need to be reapplied every hour if you remain in water or are sweating,\u201d explains board-certified dermatologist Sonia Batra<\/a>.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n Since time flies when you\u2019re having fun outside (or downing spritzes), try setting a reminder on your phone to keep from leaving the pool or beach with an accidental sunburn. And remember: If the sun is out, SPF needs to be on, and you can retire your reapplications after sunset.<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n Adding layers when it\u2019s too hot to function might not sound comfortable or chic, but there are ways to cover up with style on top of your SPF. <\/span>Opt<\/span> for a wide-brimmed hat (look for a two-inch brim) to protect the scalp and face, large sunglasses to protect delicate eyelid skin and breezy layers for another barrier of defense against the sun\u2014think lightweight button downs, <\/span>pareos<\/span>\u00a0or linen pants. Bonus points if <\/span>it\u2019s<\/span> got UPF properties, which helps filter more UV radiation.\u00a0<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n Since sunscreen\u2019s UV coverage degrades within two hours, the protection from that slather of sunscreen from your morning skincare routine will eventually become nonexistent. Alas, applications are still imperative with a full beat of makeup, so look for SPF setting sprays and powders to boost protection without disturbing your eyeliner or blush. Powder-based formulas have the added benefit of zapping excess oil while sprays can help refresh your makeup and hydrate dry skin. Win-win.\u00a0<\/span><\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n <\/div>\n Breakouts are a common woe with sunscreen, but there is no scenario in which sun damage (and potentially skin cancer) is worth forgoing SPF for a clear complexion. Instead, incorporate a formula<\/a> specifically designed for facial use, which tends to include fewer comedogenic ingredients. Thankfully, there are plenty of options nowadays that cater to acne-prone and sensitive skin times.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n