How To Apply Sunscreen Properly for Maximum Protection

Why Is Sunscreen Application Important?

Applying sunscreen and knowing how to reapply sunscreen is important when it comes to maintaining skin health and preventing harmful effects of ultraviolet radiation.

There are many benefits of sunscreen for your skin. It plays a crucial role in preventing photo-ageing and reducing the risks of skin cancer by protecting skin cells from damage caused by UV rays. Furthermore, applying sunscreen can significantly reduce sunburn, which in turn leads to long-term skin damage issues. Sunscreen helps maintain healthier, youthful skin and also prevents hyperpigmentation.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Sunscreen

The benefits of using sunscreens are endless. That’s why, sunscreen tops the list of skincare essentials after cleansers and moistures and certainly are non-negotiable. Here’s how to apply sunscreen in 4 simple steps.

Step 1: Cleanser

Use mild yet gentle micellar water to cleanse your skin by removing dirt, dust, and impurities from the skin.

Pro tip: If you wish to follow a double-cleansing method for your skin, follow it up with a gel facewash to refresh, revive, and cleanse your skin thoroughly.

Step 2: Serum

If you are struggling with dark spots, dullness, and acne marks, apply a vitamin C serum to notice improved results in just a few days and brighten your skin from within.

Step 3: Moisturizer

Keep your skin moisturized and hydrated with the daily moisturizing cream.

Step 4: Sun protection

Close your AM skincare routine with a sunscreen. Apply generous amount of sunscreen on your face, and areas that get sun exposure. Allow the sunscreen to absorb into your skin and proceed with your makeup ritual. Use an invisible sunscreen to get powerful protection with zero white cast.

Now that you know how to apply sunscreen in the correct order, let’s take a look at some dos and don’ts of sunscreen application to make the most of this wonder product.

Dos of Sunscreen

Choose the right sunscreen

Don’t invest in wrong products, pick one that suits your skin type and needs. Here are some suggestions you can consider:

For Oily Skin

Choose a lightweight, comfortable, and oil-free sunscreen. Serum sunscreens with SPF 50+ PA++++, work best. They often boast a weightless formula that gets absorbed without leaving a white cast.

For Dry Skin

Choose a sunscreen moisturizer with SPF to hydrate your skin and protect it from sun damage.

For Makeup Application

If you’re not the one to compromise on glam, choose a lightweight sunscreen spray that can be misted on your face. Look for protective formulas that blend into your makeup without any white cast.

Apply sunscreen every day

Sun protection should be a part of your daily skincare routine, even when it’s cloudy or raining. Apply at least two fingers of sunscreen 15-20 minutes before you step outside and reapply it every 2 hours.

Use enough sunscreen

Follow the 3-finger rule where you’re using sunscreen that covers the lengths of 3 fingers (index, middle and ring fingers). This is an important tip - Ensure you massage the product in your skin until it gets absorbed. If you’re using a sunscreen spray, hold it a few inches away and spray it on, till you cover your face and neck.

Re-application is key

It is advised to re-apply sunscreen every 2-3 hours to give your skin sun protection all day long.  Sunscreen can get washed away while swimming or sweating. Even a water-resistant sunscreen can last only for up to 80 minutes in the water. Ensure that you’re reapplying your sunscreen every few hours to keep your face shielded.

Look for right ingredients

Try looking for sunscreens with ingredients that help you battle oxidative stress. Sunscreens that are infused with antioxidants, like vitamin C, are ideal for your skin and can also help you deal with issues like dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and loss of elasticity.

Wear sun-protective clothing

While you’re learning how to apply sunscreen, you can also invest in sun-protective clothing that can help to protect your skin by blocking UV radiation. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, caps or hats and sunglasses to protect your skin from the sun.

Don'ts of Sunscreen

Read on to learn if you’re making any of these mistakes while applying sunscreen:

Don't use expired sunscreen

Sunscreens lose effectiveness with time. So, always check the expiration date before applying it. Also, invest in products that suit your skin type.

Don't use too little sunscreen

You’d wish you had known this while learning how to apply sunscreen correctly. Using little or insufficient sunscreen can reduce its effectiveness. Make sure to use enough sunscreen to cover your entire face. As well as the exposed part of your body.

Don’t use the same sunscreen for face and body

Your face is much more sensitive than your body. The ingredients that suit the rest of your body may or may not suit your facial skin. Hence, it’s better to use different sunscreens for your face and body.

Don't assume all sunscreens are the same

Not all sunscreens are the same. Serum sunscreens, sunscreen sprays, SPF creams, and UV face creams all have a specific purpose in your skincare routine. Make sure you understand your skin type and needs before learning to apply sunscreen correctly.

After becoming well-versed in how to apply sunscreen correctly, it’s time for you to invest in a good sunscreen that suits your skin. Browse through the wide range of skincare products and skincare tips by Garnier to pair them with your sunscreen, and flaunt healthy, glowing skin. Don’t forget to take the Garnier Skin Care Quiz and get product recommendations that are tailored to your skin type.