We’re constantly being told how important it is to wear sunscreen, but rarely are we toldhowto wear it. If you’ve ever wondered if you’re using sunscreen the right way, you aren’t alone. Maybe you’ve wound up with a nasty sunburn even though you took time to applySPF. Read on for everything you need to know about proper sunscreen application.
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How to Apply Sunscreen
Physical and chemical sunscreens work a bit differently:
Both products are applied the same way. The only difference is timing.
Get the Most out of Sunscreen
6 Sources
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de Gálvez MV, Aguilera J, Buendía EA, Sánchez‐Roldán C, Herrera‐Ceballos E.Time required for a standard sunscreen to become effective following application: a UV photography study.Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology. 2018 Apr;32(4):e123-4.
Paul SP.Ensuring the safety of sunscreens, and their efficacy in preventing skin cancers: challenges and controversies for clinicians, formulators, and regulators.Front Med (Lausanne). 2019;6:195. doi:10.3389/fmed.2019.00195
American Cancer Society.Spend time outside and stay sun-safe.
Montemarano AD, Gupta RK, Burge JR, Klein K.Insect repellents and the efficacy of sunscreens.Lancet (British edition). 1997;349(9066):1670-1. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(05)62637-2
Skin Cancer Foundation.Ask the expert: Which is better, a combination insect repellant and sunscreen or separate products?
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