How to Apply Sunscreen on Face
Sunscreen application is one of the most essential but often ignored step in your daily skincare routine. Many people own a sunscreen because it was trending or someone recommended it, but very few use it correctly. Regular use of a sunscreen is non-negotiable to save your skin from pigmentation, dark spots and you get a healthy, glowy skin.
Let us discuss in detail what sunscreen is, application steps, its importance and how to use it for maximum sun protection.
What is a Sunscreen?
Sunscreen is a skincare product which is used/applied to protect your skin from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Sunscreen is not used only to prevent you from getting tanned, but it is used to prevent skin damage from the sun's harmful rays. These are:
- UVA rays – Responsible for premature aging, pigmentation and fine lines.
- UVB rays – Responsible for sunburn and direct skin damage.
What are the Benefits of Using a Sunscreen Daily?
Reducing the Risk of Skin Cancer
The application of your sunscreen daily is not just a beauty tip but a healthy initiative to save your skin from sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays which reduces the chances of getting skin cancer in the future.
Prevent Sunburn and Skin Damage
UVB rays are harmful which damages the top layer of skin, causing redness, skin irritation and peeling of skin in case of extreme sunburn. Though the sunburn situation is only temporary but it can have a long-lasting effect on your skin. Daily use of sunscreen can prevent your skin from getting sunburned to maximum extent. For maximum result, if you are out in the sun for long, reapply sunscreen every 2 hours.
Prevents Wrinkles and Aging
Daily exposure of skin to the harmful UVA rays can increase the process of aging. These rays penetrate deep into your skin and break collagen and elastin which leads to wrinkles and sagging of skin. The benefit of using a sunscreen daily is that it works best as anti-aging.
Reduces Hyperpigmentation and Redness
Prolonged sun exposure increases the production of melatonin which worsen dark spots, marks and pigmentation on face. Daily use of sunscreen prevent your skin from getting any inflammation or redness and also prevents pigmentation from getting worse.
Maintains Even Skin Tone
If you are using sunscreen with skincare actives like Vitamin C, Retinol, AHA or BHA’s then your skin is already safe from getting any pigmentation or marks. These actives help enhance your skin while also protecting from harmful sun rays.
What is the meaning of SPF and PA (+) in sunscreen?
Choosing the right sunscreen is often difficult especially with SPF 30, 50 or PA+ or PA+++ written on the packaging. This confuses everyone as to which one is most suitable for daily wear and perfect for daily use.
What is SPF?
SPF is Sun Protection Factor which measures protection against UVB rays. So when you see different numerical values written in front of SPF, it means:
- SPF 15: Blocks about 93% of UVB rays.
- SPF 30: Blocks about 97% of UVB rays.
- SPF 50: Blocks about 98% of UVB rays.
What is PA value in SPF?
PA rating measures protection against UVA rays.
- PA+ = Some UVA protection
- PA++ = Moderate protection
- PA+++ = High protection
- PA++++ = Extremely high protection
Which Sunscreen is Best for Daily Wear?
If you live in a region where heat is most prominent and in a year, you have mostly summers. It is best for use a sunscreen, which has:
- SPF 50
- Is PA+++ or PA++++
- Is broad spectrum
- Suits your skin type
- In a form to reapply easily
How to Apply Sunscreen for Best Results?
Dedicatedly using a sunscreen daily but in the wrong manner can reduce the effectiveness. Using a sunscreen is essential and you should know the right way to get the full benefit of using a sunscreen.
Step 1: Apply as the last step in Skincare
Sunscreen should always be applied after moisturizer and before makeup. Always leave enough time space between your skincare and makeup.
Step 2: Use Enough Quantity
To get the full sun protection, you need to apply a generous amount of sunscreen.
- For Face and Neck: About 2 finger length sunscreen is recommended.
- For Body: Depends upon the visible area but make sure to cover evenly.
Step 3: Give Enough Time
Just like any other skincare product, sunscreen also require enough time to get absorbed in skin. Leave it on for at least 10-15 mins for full absorption and then start your makeup.
Step 4: Reapply Every 2 Hours
When you are outdoors and in prolonged exposure to sun. Reapplication becomes essential, especially in summers, when you are sweating. If you have makeup on, you can use a sunscreen spray, sunscreen powder or sticks for easy reapplication.
Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying Sunscreen
- Choose a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and is water resistant so even if you sweat, your sunscreen will stay.
- Apply sunscreen atleast 15-20 minutes before going out to let it fully absorb in your skin.
- Use ample amount of sunscreen especially on your face and neck area. Reapply whenever required.
- Do not mix any of your skincare product with sunscreen as it will dilute the effect and will not be as effective.
- Never skip sunscreen even if you are sitting indoors. UVA rays can penetrate window glass. Applying sunscreen is essential and non-negotiable.
Why Beauty Berry’s Vitamin C Sunscreen?
When choosing the right sunscreen, formula makes all the difference. Beauty Berry’s Vitamin C sunscreen is made with the love of Vitamin C and SPF 50 PA+++ which helps in brightening and evens skin tone, also protects your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays.
SPF 50 PA+++
This sunscreen provides the highest level of broad spectrum protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays.
Enriched with Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant which helps in Brightening and prevents anti-aging. This helps in:
- Brightens dull skin
- Fades pigmentation
- Protects against free radical damage
- Enhances glow
Lightweight and Non-Greasy Formula
Heavy sunscreen formula can clog pores and will feel like another layer on your skin. Beauty Berry Vitamin C Sunscreen feels light and non-greasy, even in hot and humid conditions.
Works Well Under Makeup
The texture is creamy which when applied gets absorbed into the skin and does not form any piled up layer. Leave it on for 10-15 mins and let it absorb in your skin properly.
FAQs About Sunscreen
Q.1 How to apply sunscreen with makeup?
Apply sunscreen as the last step in your skincare routine. Wait for a minimum of 10 minutes to let it fully absorb and then start your makeup application.
Q.2 How to apply sunscreen in winter?
The key to apply sunscreen in winters is to load up with lots of hydration. Use a hydrating and nourishing face serum according to your skin type and then apply sunscreen at last.
Q.3 How much sunscreen to use of face?
Two finger rule is for the amount of sunscreen to use on face. Take sunscreen on 2 fingers length and apply on face and neck.
Q.4 Is it necessary to apply sunscreen in winters?
Yes sunscreen is non-negotiable in any season. During winter season, you are layering and covering
Q.5 Which goes first moisturizer or sunscreen?
In your skincare routine, moisturizer is used first and sunscreen is applied as the last step.