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Sunscreen represents a technological marvel, serving as our best defense against aging while ensuring outdoor safety for those with fair skin, like myself, who might otherwise suffer severe sunburns. If you’ve ever wondered about its proper use or necessity, this guide covers all the essentials.
When Should You Apply Sunscreen?
Dermatologists emphasize, every single day. While many recall childhood days when sunscreen was reserved for beach trips, experts stress its importance far beyond those occasions. They’re absolutely correct.
Sunburns occur when your skin is exposed to high levels of UVB rays from the sun. This typically happens during midday in the summer when the sun is directly overhead. Once the sun's angle drops below 35 degrees—whether due to early or late hours or winter months—UVB exposure decreases significantly, reducing the risk of sunburn.
However, quality sunscreen also shields your skin from UVA rays, which lead to skin thickening, premature aging, and increased skin cancer risk. Remember that famous photo of the truck driver with uneven, wrinkled skin on one side of his face? UVA rays penetrate windows, so despite avoiding tanning or burning, his skin still bore the damage from 28 years of driving.
Who Should Use Sunscreen?
No one is exempt, unfortunately.
While darker skin offers some natural protection, it’s not foolproof. Higher melanin levels reduce the likelihood of sunburns and skin cancer, but it’s not absolute. Dermatologists still advise sunscreen for everyone. Consumer Reports suggests brands like Coppertone ClearlySheer and Banana Boat’s Clear UltraMist, which blend well without leaving an ashy residue on darker skin tones.
While women may be more vigilant about sunscreen, individuals of all genders face risks of skin cancer, premature aging, and sunburns. Don’t hesitate to apply it regularly, and make sure to work it into your beard if you have one.
Is Sunscreen Safe?
Absolutely. While it’s true that you’re applying chemicals to your skin daily, the same applies to lotions and cosmetics. Scientific research has not identified any significant health risks associated with sunscreen use.
Coral reefs, however, are vulnerable to certain sunscreen chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which is why Hawaii has prohibited their use. If you’re swimming near coral reefs, opt for reef-safe alternatives. Otherwise, most sunscreens are perfectly suitable.
If you’re concerned about minimal cancer risks, remember that the real threat comes from the sun itself. Skipping sunscreen exposes you to far greater health risks than any ingredients found in sunscreens.
There are no effective substitutes for sunscreen, aside from staying indoors, which is a reliable option. If someone tries to sell you supplements claiming to boost sun resistance or suggests using coconut oil as a replacement, politely decline.
If you’re concerned about your baby’s sensitive skin, the recommendation is to keep infants under six months out of direct sunlight. This also eliminates the worry of them ingesting sunscreen from their hands.
How Much Sunscreen Should You Apply?
Apply as much as possible. Realistically, most people won’t use enough to achieve the SPF level advertised. Sunscreen testing involves applying two milligrams per square centimeter of skin, a standard chosen for consistency in research. Most individuals use only a quarter or half of that amount.
While you should aim to use a full shot glass (one ounce, roughly the size of a ping pong ball) for your entire body, understand that you’re likely getting less protection than expected. This means:
SPF 15 doesn’t allow you to stay in the sun 15 times longer; it’s closer to times.
High SPF sunscreens compensate for under-application. While SPF 50 and SPF 100 perform similarly in lab tests, real-world usage shows a notable gap.
Supplement sunscreen with sleeves, hats, and shade. Even the most effective sunscreen doesn’t offer complete protection.
Are Spray Sunscreens Effective?
Spray sunscreens are effective but come with important considerations:
Ensure you apply an adequate amount—unlike creams, there’s no clear guideline for sprays. Spray until a visible sheen appears, and ideally, rub it in. (I skip this step without issues, but this isn’t medical advice.)
Avoid inhaling the spray or getting it in your eyes. I use lotion on my face and my kids’ faces, reserving sprays for other areas.
Never use spray sunscreen near an open flame.
Can Moisturizers with SPF Replace Sunscreen?
Dermatologist Fayne Frey, as mentioned in our skincare guide, notes that SPF in moisturizers and cosmetics is beneficial. However, the challenge lies in reapplying SPF throughout the day. Since no other product requires reapplication as frequently as sunscreen, using separate products is practical. Personally, I apply an SPF moisturizer each morning and follow up with a dedicated sunscreen as needed.
She also mentions that the order of application—sunscreen or other products—doesn’t matter. The key is simply ensuring you use it consistently.
