Sunblock: How To Tell If You Haven't Put Enough On

How to Avoid a Sunblock Fiasco

Picture this: best friends Tim and Jim are planning a fabulous day outdoors. They know sun protection is essential, but they're confused about how much sunblock to use and when to reapply. Fear not, Tim and Jim! This article will help you master the art of sunblock application like a pro.

Finding the Sweet Spot: Not Too Little, Not Too Much

First, let's talk about how much sunblock you should use. Dermatologist Dr. Susan Taylor recommends using at least a shot glass-sized amount of sunblock for your whole body (1). Tim adds, "Don't forget those easy-to-miss spots like the ears and back of the neck!"

But how do you know if you've applied too little or too much? If you notice uneven coverage, rapid sunburn or tanning, or visible dry patches, you might need to apply more sunblock. On the other hand, if your skin feels excessively greasy, or the sunblock pills or flakes, you've probably gone overboard.

Application Techniques: Making Every Drop Count

Applying sunblock evenly and thoroughly is crucial. Rub the sunblock between your hands to warm it up, then apply it in a circular motion. Jim says, "I find using a sunblock with a built-in applicator really helps me reach those tricky spots."

Make sure to give the sunblock enough time to absorb before heading out into the sun. This usually takes about 15-30 minutes.

Reapplying Sunblock: The When and How

Reapplying sunblock is just as important as putting it on in the first place. As a general rule, you should reapply every two hours, or after swimming, sweating, or toweling off (2).

Environmental factors can also affect how often you need to reapply. For instance, if you're at the beach or pool, water and wind can remove sunblock faster. Tim notes, "I always set a timer on my phone to remind me when it's time to reapply."

Keep an eye out for signs that you need to reapply, such as sunblock wearing off, skin redness, or uneven coverage.

Expert Opinions: Dermatologists Weigh In

Dermatologists have plenty of advice on sunblock application. Dr. Taylor suggests, "Apply sunblock generously and evenly, and don't forget to reapply throughout the day" (1). Studies have shown that most people only apply 25-50% of the recommended amount of sunblock, which can reduce its effectiveness (3).

Avoiding Sunblock Mishaps: Common Mistakes

Now that you know the ins and outs of sunblock application, let's discuss some common mistakes to avoid:

Applying sunblock too late: Remember to apply sunblock 15-30 minutes before sun exposure.
Skipping hard-to-reach areas: Jim shares, "I always ask a friend to help me apply sunblock to my back."
Inconsistent reapplication: Set a timer to remind yourself to reapply sunblock every two hours or after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.
Using expired sunblock: Check the expiration date on your sunblock and replace it when needed.

The Final Word: Sunblock Savvy

Armed with this knowledge, Tim and Jim are ready to enjoy their day outdoors without worrying about sunburns or skincare mishaps. Whether you're a sunblock newbie or a seasoned pro, remember to apply generously, reapply frequently, and be mindful of the signs that you need more or less sunblock.