6 Tips to using and buying the right Sunscreen
Looking for the best sunscreen brand in Australia? Here are our tips on how to find and use sunscreen that does wonders to your skin.
Let us let you in on a little secret. Whenever we ask our clients “Do you know how to use sunscreen?” - they always have that look on their face like “Are you crazy? Of course, I do!”.
Believe it or not when we dig a little deeper, it is always the same story. Most people are either using the wrong sunscreen, or not effectively applying it, making the product a waste and also affecting their skin in the process.
Here’s our tips on finding the right sunscreen and using it effectively so that you can keep your skin protected, beautiful, healthy, and happy.
1. Choosing the right SPF sunscreen
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor; this is a measurement of how well the sunscreen protects the skin from the sun and its effects e.g. sunburn.
You might think that the higher the SPF, the better it is, but that’s not always the case. The SPF you pick depends upon where you live, the amount of sun exposure you get and your own skin type and skin conditions.
When choosing a sunscreen, make sure it’s a minimum of SPF 30+, water resistant, and broad-spectrum. Broad-spectrum will ensure you are protected from both UVB (which causes burning and skin cancer) and UVA (which causes aging and skin cancer).
2. Not all sunscreens are created equal.
Firstly, can we just say… Always buy your sunscreen in Australia! Australian sunscreen brands are specifically made for our harsh environment and go through strict SPF standards, so that means that sunscreen you bought overseas just won’t cut the mustard.
In addition to choosing a water-resistant, SPF 30+ and broad-spectrum sunscreen, it’s important to also consider how you’ll be using it. Some sunscreens can dry out the skin, so if dry skin is of particular concern to you select a sunscreen that will help hydrate and repair your skin whilst providing protection.
Also remember, sunscreen is for the entire year, don’t limit your skincare in summer only!
3. Pay attention to the formulation when you buy sunscreen in Australia
Since the new rating of SPF 50+ was introduced and approved by Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in 2012, sunscreen users have often overestimated its level of protection. This has provided users with a false sense of security over its effectiveness when exposed to the sun. SPF 50+, which provides 98% protection, only provides marginally better protection compared to SPF 30+, which provides 96.7% protection (Cancer Council Australia).
4. Less is NOT more when it comes to sunscreen
Wondering how to use sunscreen in the best way? Application is key. Whether you buy sunscreen that is SPF30+ or SPF50+ – always apply sunscreen liberally – at least a teaspoon for each limb, front and back of the body and half a teaspoon for the face, neck and ears. Most people apply less than half this amount, which means they get far less protection than the SPF as stated on the bottle.
5. Clock it out
Timing is crucial. Putting on sunscreen hours before you plan to be in the sun is not ideal, nor is it effective if you put it on while walking out the door. Always apply sunscreen 20 minutes before leaving the house. This ensures effective absorption before going out in the sun and is a good base layer if you are intending to spend long periods of time outside.
6. Don’t forget to repeat and reapply!
The highest frequency of sunburn occurs when you forget to re-apply your sunscreen. Even if you are using the best sunscreen brand, the only way it is going to be effective is by optimal reapplication.
When it comes to sunscreen, what is most important is how you apply it and how often you re-apply. SPF50+ sunscreen still needs to be applied just as liberally as SPF30+ and re-applied every two hours (or after swimming, exercising and towel drying).
We follow the good old 5 S’ of sunscreen safety – “slip, slop, slap, seek, and slide!” Enjoy the sun and the shine and let your skin stay healthy and beautiful, by following these tips on how to use sunscreen. Take care!
Lots of love from Andrea.