Sun protection is increasingly present in everyday life, but applying sunscreen properly remains a challenge for many. Insufficient amount, late application or negligence of specific zones compromise the effectiveness of the product and leave the skin vulnerable to the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays.
The right dose makes all the difference
According to the Directorate General of Health, to ensure the protection indicated on the label, the equivalent of a teaspoon full of sunscreen should be applied to the face. For the body, the ideal amount surrounds the 30 milliliters, something similar to a shot glass.
The same entity explains that using less than this amount can halve the effectiveness of sunscreen.
The ideal time to apply
The protector should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before leaving home so that the skin can absorb the product and form the necessary protective layer.
Putting it at the moment it exposes itself to the sun is insufficient, as the product will not have time to act properly.
Do not forget to reapply
Protector reapplication is another essential point. The application should be renewed at least every two hours, especially after bathing, intense perspiration or when the skin is dry with a towel. Even water resistant protectors lose some of their effectiveness over time.
Forgotten areas are the most vulnerable
Some areas of the body are often forgotten and are therefore more exposed to sun damage. This is the case of ears, neck, forehead, lower eyelids and lips.
The Portuguese Society of Dermatology warns of the need to cover these zones, which are particularly susceptible to burns and premature aging.
Sprays: easier, more care
Spray protectors have gained popularity for speed and practicality, but require careful application. Explains the same source that should be applied abundantly and uniformly, preventing the product from being inhaled.
For children, it is advisable to use specific protectors for sensitive skin, avoiding spray whenever possible.
Protection must be complemented
In situations of prolonged exposure to the sun, the application should be done in layers, especially in the most exposed areas, such as shoulders, back and upper feet.
The website of adds that, for effective protection, it is essential to associate the protector with other methods, such as the use of hats, UV protection clothes and sunglasses.
Protecting the skin against the sun requires more than a simple layer of protector. It is necessary to guarantee the correct amount, apply in advance and renew the application throughout the day. Only in this way, guarantees the Portuguese Society of Dermatology and Venereology, is it possible to avoid damage that may have serious long -term consequences.
Also read:
