There’s a specific amount of sunscreen you’re supposed to apply, and almost nobody uses that much

Sunscreen is a crucial part of any skincare routine, yet there are many misconceptions and lesser-known facts about this protective product. Whether you’re hitting the beach or just stepping out for a quick errand, understanding how sunscreen works and why it’s so important can help you make the most of it. Here are 10 essential sunscreen facts that everyone should know.

10 Essential Sunscreen Facts Everyone Should Know

Fact 1: SPF Isn’t Just About Sunburn Prevention

On a typical sunny day, both UVA and UVB light reach the earth. UVA is known to be more dominant but UVB is the main cause of skin cancer, sunburn, and hyperpigmentation because it acts on the epidermal layer of the skin and breakdown the skin’s DNA. UVB is usually at its peak within the time of 10 am to 4 pm

UVA, on the other hand, appears all year round. It penetrates through the glass even if you are sitting quietly in your room. It is the main cause of saggy and wrinkled skin because it goes deep into the skin to damage both collagen and elastin fibres.

That is why the use of broad-spectrum sunscreen is advisable. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays, to ensure comprehensive protection.

Fact 2: SPF 30 Is the Dermatologist-Recommended Minimum

To know how sunscreen works, we would have to know what SPF means. SPF (Sun Protection factor) is the ability of sunscreen to delay sunburn. You must have come across so many sunscreens with this important claim ranging from SPF 4, 15, 30, 50, and so on. It gives you the measure of how long it takes to burn.

• SPF 4 – 50% Protection
• SPF 8 – 88% Protection
• SPF 15 – 94% Protection
• SPF 30 – 97% Protection
• SPF 50 – 98% Protection

When choosing a sunscreen, aim for at least SPF 30. While higher SPF values provide slightly more protection, SPF 30 blocks approximately 97% of UVB rays, and SPF 50 blocks about 98%. No sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays, but SPF 30 offers a good balance of protection and practicality for everyday use.

Fact 3: Do I Have To Wear Sunscreen For Dark Skin?

The answer is simply YES because everyone is predisposed to the adverse effects of overexposure to the sun. However, some skin types are more vulnerable than others. So you need to check your Fitzpatrick Scale to find out what your skin type falls in. Fitzpatrick’s skin type explains which skin tone is likely to burn and which isn’t. To check your Fitzpatrick skin type, read how to determine your skin type and the best sunscreens for black skin.

Fact 4: Chemical vs. Physical Sunscreens: Know the Difference

Physical sunscreen

Physical sunscreens are also known as barrier sunscreen, they scatter UV light, visible light, infrared light, and are mostly recommended under intense sunlight. They are generally great for sensitive and acne-prone skin types as they barely irritate the skin. You would mostly find Titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, iron oxide in this type of sunscreen.

Physical sunscreen sits on top of the skin rather than being absorbed into the skin and because of this, they give off a white cast. The white cast is the downside of most physical sunscreens.

Chemical sunscreen

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV radiation into the skin and then release it back as heat. You would mostly find chemical sunscreens mixed with other physical sunscreen ingredients to improve its efficacy. Since chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin, they may disrupt hormone levels and can be found in urines. They may also cause acne and skin sensitivity. You would mostly find oxybenzone, avobenzone, cinnamates, and other physical sunscreens ingredients mixed together.

Since chemical sunscreens are absorbed, they are great for use as a primer, they sit well into the skin without any form of white cast. The downside is the hormone disruption and not a great option for children under 2 years.

Fact 5: How Long Does It Take For My Skin To Burn Without Sunscreen?

This answer depends on what your skin type and the UV index on the Fitzpatrick Scale. You can obtain your UV index from your local weather stations or EPA’s website. UV index range from 0 -11, with 0 meaning low, and 11+ meaning high.

While sunscreen is essential, it shouldn’t be your only line of defense against the sun. Complement sunscreen use with other protective measures like wearing wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses with UV protection, and seeking shade, especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Clothing with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating can also provide additional protection.

Fact 6: How Much Sunscreen Should I Apply?

If you look at most sunscreen, they will write “apply liberally” and you are left with “what does liberally even mean?”.

Well, the general rule to apply sunscreen is by following the TEASPOON RULE per the skin’s surface. Meaning the whole skin must be covered up with approximately 30ml of sunscreen for adults. To apply this amount, the best advice is to use the size of a “shot glass” for the whole body and a quarter teaspoon for the face.

SPF ISN’T JUST FOR THE FACE

Your lips, scalp, and even your hair need protection from the sun too. The lips are prone to sunburn and skin cancer because they lack melanin, the pigment that provides some natural protection. Use a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher. For your scalp, especially if you have thinning hair or part your hair, consider wearing a hat.

Fact 7: Sunscreen Should Be Reapplied Every Two Hours

If you are applying skincare products such as cleansers, toners, serums, moisturizers, ensure that the sunscreen is the last step of the skincare routine. This will ensure that you are not limiting the effectiveness of your sunscreen. If you are using chemical sunscreens, then apply it 20 minutes before you leave the house and reapply after swimming

Sunscreen doesn’t last all day. It breaks down over time due to sun exposure, sweat, and water. To maintain protection, you should reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. Even water-resistant sunscreens need to be reapplied after towel drying.

Fact 8: Is My Foundation SPF Enough?

If you have a foundation with SPF in it, it is simply not enough to protect you from the sun. If you have to follow the teaspoon rule, then you would need about 11 pumps of foundation to cover your whole face. That would be too much and cakey.

So it is best to use sunscreens underneath then use makeup with SPF to protect your face further.

Fact 9: Will Sunscreen Deprive Me Of Vitamin D?

Sunscreen is not capable of providing 100% protection from sun radiation so the tiny amount of UVB that sunscreen does not shield us from is enough to synthesize Vitamin D. Although this depends on your skin type, the UV index, weather, and age. So it is always a good idea to supplement with vitamin D to have optimal vitamins for the skin. I would highly recommend you take vitamin D supplements instead of relying on the sun’s rays.

Fact 10: My Best Sunscreen Recommendations For Different Skin Types

For acne-prone/oily skin

For acne-prone or oily skin, you really want to avoid products that contain oxybenzone or chemical sunscreens in general because of how this type of sunscreen acts on the skin. Oxybenzone has been shown to cause skin allergens and since it can penetrate the skin, it can cause sebum oxidation leading to more breakouts.

For acne-prone skin, go for a sunscreen with a high amount of zinc oxide and rich in antioxidants. Zinc oxide is known to be beneficial due to its ability to heal and soothe the skin, it helps reduce redness.

for sensitive skin type

For sensitive skin types, you may go for sunscreens that include both physical and chemical ingredients in sunscreens or just physical sunscreens. Choose sunscreens rich in antioxidants.

for dry skin type

You can either use chemical or physical sunscreens that contain hydrating ingredients. Pick a sunscreen that is really mild, gentle and does not irritate the skin

Conclusion

Understanding these essential sunscreen facts can help you protect your skin more effectively and reduce the risk of sun damage, premature aging, and skin cancer. By making sunscreen a daily habit and using it correctly, you can enjoy the benefits of healthy, radiant skin for years to come. Remember, sunscreen is your skin’s best friend—use it wisely!

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