Right Ways To Use Your Sunblock

You may know that applying sunblock is a must for everyone to protect us from the sun’s agonizing rays. But do you also know how to use it the right way?

Even the best sunblock won’t help and protect you well if you don’t apply it right.

It is a must for your skin to be protected by sunblock on a daily basis. An effective sunscreen can keep your skin from burns, minimize the development of wrinkles and other signs of aging, and can reduce your risk of skin cancer. Sunburns damage the skin cells and blood vessels and can cause the skin to look older, more wrinkled, dry, discolored, and leathery. It is important to use sunblock properly every day.

Too many people manage to mess up the application process — slathering on too little, skipping vulnerable spots, and more.

To be sure you’re covered, correct these following sunblock application mistakes:

1. Skipping Important Areas

It’s important to apply sunscreen to all areas that’ll be exposed to the sun, though there are a few spots people tend to miss.

Eyelids and lips, according to in-depth studies, are critical areas often-missed areas that are susceptible to damage. These areas should be covered, too.

2. Too Stingy When Applying Sun Block

On beach days, coat your body fully with at least 1 ounce (a shot glass full) of sunscreen. More is better.

3. Ignoring the Expiration Date

You’re putting your skin at risk when you’ve been using the same bottle of sunblock year after year. Check the expiration date first before applying, and if you don’t see one, assume it expires three years from the date of purchase.

4. Waiting until You’re Already at the Beach to Apply Sunscreen

Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before you step outdoors because it takes that long for your skin to absorb the protective ingredients. Smooth it on as evenly as possible before getting dressed to avoid missing spots.

5. Not Applying Sun Block when Cloudy

Even when the sun is nowhere to be seen, 80 percent of its UV rays can still hit your skin. It’s important to slather it on any time you go outside — regardless of cloud coverage.

6. Not Bothering to Re-Apply Your Sun Block

Most people don’t reapply their sunscreen as often as recommended, which leaves the skin unprotected. It is a must to re-apply sunscreen at least every two hours, more often if you perspire heavily or go swimming.

Now that you know the no-no’s in terms of applying your sunblock, you can now observe better application for your skin’s betterment.

Have more questions regarding use of sunblock? Consult our dermatologists for FREE. Call our Patient Care Lines (+632) 7-368 5238 | (+63) 917 862 7454 | (+63) 921 217 0517 to book an appointment.