5 Tips for Getting the Most Sun Protection Out of Your Sunscreen

Now that it’s July, we’re in the full swing of summer. If you live in the Midwest like me, you paid your dues this winter and have earned some time in the sun.

Wearing sunscreen is something we should all be doing every day but we also need to make sure we’ve getting the full benefits of our sunscreen. First things first, check the expiration date on the bottle – because YES, sunscreen does expire! – then follow these five tips to provide your skin with the best protection possible.

1. Use a Broad Spectrum Sunscreen
The sun emits two types of ultraviolet rays: UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays are the ones that typically cause sunburns and skin damage while UVA rays are more likely to increase your risk of skin cancer. A broad spectrum sunscreen blocks both types of rays, giving you the best protection against skin cancer, sunburns and skin damage like premature aging!

While we’re on the topic of UVB rays…many tanning salons and health spas insist their tanning beds are a healthy alternative to the sun because they only emit UVB rays. They don’t give off the UVA rays that cause sunburns so people believe them to be safer. Maybe this is where the myth of a base tan comes in? Either way, a tan is still skin damage whether you get it from natural or artificial light. UVB rays are more likely to cause dangerous forms of skin cancer like melanoma, even if you never burn. You don’t need to burn to develop skin cancer.

2. Use SPF 30 or Higher
SPF (or sun protection factor) determines how much of the sun’s rays your sunscreen absorbs and reflects. For daily use, most doctors and dermatologists recommend at least SPF 15. If you plan to spend any amount of time outdoors, aim to use SPF 30 or higher. Since I don’t want to have to buy separate sunscreens for my daily use and days I’ll be outside, I have found it to be easier to use SPF 30+ daily.

However, the sun protection doesn’t increase proportionate to the SPF number. For example, SPF 30 does not offer twice as much protection as SPF 15. You still need to use just as much sunscreen and to reapply just as often with a higher SPF sunscreen!

3. Apply Sunscreen Early and Often
After applying sunscreen, it takes about 30 minutes for your skin to fully absorb it. If you plan to be outdoors, be sure to apply your sunscreen early so it has time to be absorbed for maximum protection. It’s also important to apply to dry skin or it won’t absorb as well or last as long.

You should reapply the full amount every 2 hours for the duration of your time outdoors. Despite what some sunscreens claim, no sunscreen is completely waterproof. Be sure to reapply right after swimming or doing an activity where you’re sweating for any length of time. Spray sunscreens also need to be reapplied more often than a cream or lotion version: every hour to an hour and a half compared to every two hours!

4. Apply Sunscreen Liberally
Most people probably don’t use enough sunscreen to fully protect themselves. This is especially true if the sunscreen is hard to rub in, leaves a sticky residue or casts a white sheen on your skin. There are so many amazing sunscreens out there; it’s worth taking the time to find the one that works best for you! My personal favorites are the SuperGoop! Glow Screen for summer and SuperGoop! Play for days I’ll be outdoors and need to reapply often.

For your sunscreen to do its job effectively, you need at least 1 oz – or a shot glass full – applied to your entire body. There are some areas that are often overlooked as well. Who hasn’t burnt their scalp, ears or the tops of their feet at some time? The most forgotten areas are your scalp, ears, neck, hands and feet!

5. Use Additional Sun Protection
Nothing is 100% effective so you should always use multiple methods of sun protection, especially again on those days spent outdoors. A wide-brim hat helps protect not only your face and scalp but also shields the back of your neck and ears. Anyone who has ever gotten sunscreen in their mouth accidentally knows it doesn’t taste great which is why I love finding a good SPF 30 lip balm or lip tint.

If you’ve been following me for anything length of time, you know that I’m a huge advocate for annual skin checks but annual eye exams are just as important! Did you know that, while rare, melanoma can occur in your eyes? The best way to protect them is by wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection. You don’t have to invest a lot of money in a pair. Some of my favorite pool day sunglasses have been found at Target: you just need to make sure they are labelled with the 100% UV protection sticker.

Last, but certainly not least, UPF clothing is so beneficial when it comes to protecting yourself from the sun. Gone are the days where UPF clothing is just made for golfers and those who have retired to sunny locales. While many UPF clothing lines do still come with heftier price tags, there are many affordable options popping up us well. I’m an ambassador for Low Ultraviolet because I LOVE their classic styles, easy-to-wear basics and affordable options. I even keep one of their sun wraps in my office at work to protect myself from the late afternoon sun that peeks through the window above my desk. Yes, you can even be affected by the sun’s rays through the windows of your car, house or office!

If you’re shopping for UPF clothing from Low Ultraviolet, using code JENN15 will save you 15% at checkout. While I am an ambassador, I don’t receive any commission from your purchase. I just genuinely love the two women behind this female-founded company, the products they sell and their mission of outshining skin cancer.

What’s your favorite sunscreen?