Read This Because You’re Probably Putting on Sunscreen Wrong

Practicing safe sun to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays is a fact that can be filed under Skincare 101. Whether the forecast calls for cloudy or sunny skies, sunscreen should be a fixture in your daily skincare routine. Here’s another friendly reminder that in addition to sunburn and age spots, sun damage can also present itself in the following forms:

Actinic keratoses: These are rough, scaly patches that appear on sun-exposed areas of the skin. Up to 10% of actinic keratoses can develop into squamous cell carcinoma.

Actinic cheilitis: These are similar to actinic keratoses where, in this instance, it appears on the lips.

Atypical moles: Moles, in general, are common; however, keep an eye out for moles that have irregular borders, uneven surfaces or itches.

Rosacea: The heat from the sun can exacerbate the sensitivity of rosacea-affected skin presenting a flushed, red appearance.

Poikiloderma of Civatte:  This term refers to redness and mottled pigmentation on the sides of the neck. The skin under the chin is usually not affected since it is actually shaded by the chin.

Now that you are armed with the facts and you’ve got your sunscreen at hand, here’s the million-dollar question: Are you applying sunscreen properly?

If you find yourself pausing a little too long looking for the right answer, you’re not alone. Researchers from King’s College in London U. K. found that the majority of users are not getting the appropriate protection—only getting a meager 40% of coverage – simply because they aren’t applying it properly. So, it’s time we correct that with these 5 key tips!

1. According to the Canadian Dermatology Association, sunscreen should be liberally applied, specifically “one palm-full” for each arm and each leg. Apply evenly and don’t be afraid to reapply every 2-3 hours especially after a good sweat or a swim.

2. When it comes to the face, apply ¼ teaspoon evenly over the face and neck.

3. We often just focus on the forehead and cheeks but don’t forget your hairline, ears, jawline and entire cheeks and neck.

4. Use tinted sunscreen to give you that added glow and the opportunity to give your foundation the day off.

5. Look for broad-spectrum sunscreen. Broad spectrum is exactly how it sounds – broader protection from both UVA and UVB rays.

What You Can Try @ Awad Medical - AlumierMD

What: Sheer Hydration Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 in Untinted/Versatile Tint Skin Type: Dry/Normal/Combination Skin Why: Boosted by zinc oxide and titanium dioxide—powerful UV fighting ingredients—Sheer Hydration also includes the moisturizing power of vitamin E. This broad-spectrum sunscreen also boasts free-radical-quenching antioxidants, including a stable vitamin C, resveratrol, grape seed extract and glutathione. You can even swap your foundation for the tinted version to give your skin a healthy glow.

What: Moisture Matte Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 40 Ivory/Sand/Amber Skin Type: Normal/Combination/Oily Skin Why: In addition to zinc oxide and titanium oxide, Moisture Matte also has antioxidants like caffeine, silybin and knotgrass extract. This formula is especially geared to hydrate as well as moisturize while absorbing excess oil to create a matte finish. The cutting-edge, color-encapsulated beads blend on the skin, creating a sheer tint and healthy glow. Give your foundation a break and use the tinted version to get that extra oomph in glow.

What: Clear Shield Broad Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 42 Skin Type: Normal/Combination/Oily Skin Why: This is super lightweight and quick-drying sunscreen uses the fighting power of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to battle against those harmful UVA and UVB rays. Redness-prone or sensitive skin is also soothed by niacinamide while the sodium hyaluronate gives the skin the moisture it needs.

Now that you know how to properly protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, always keep that extra stock of sunscreen by your side so that you can continue to practice safe sun!