How To Apply Sunscreen On Face: 8 Easy Steps

1. Choose the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Type

Picking the right sunscreen for your skin type is crucial. Oily, dry, combination, and sensitive skin each needs special formulations. This ensures comfort and effectiveness and prevents irritation or breakouts. Let's explore how to choose sunscreen for your skin type and share some recommendations.

For Oily or Acne-Prone Skin

Choose lightweight, non-greasy, gel-based sunscreens. They absorb quickly and won't clog pores. Pilgrim's 2% Niacinamide Glow Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++ is ideal. It controls oil and reduces blemishes, offering strong UV protection.

For Dry Skin

Seek sunscreens with hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or ceramides. These maintain moisture and prevent tightness. Pilgrim's 1% Hyaluronic Acid Sunscreen Gel SPF 50 PA+++ is perfect. It offers protection and intense hydration, leaving no stickiness.

For Sensitive Skin

Avoid harsh chemicals and fragrances. Opt for mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They provide gentle UV protection. Pilgrim's VITAMIN C Invisible Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++ Australian Kakadu Plum is recommended. It's soothing, boosts glow, and offers high protection.

For Dull or Uneven Skin Tones

Look for sunscreens with antioxidants like vitamin C or niacinamide. They prevent dark spots and hyperpigmentation. Pilgrim's VITAMIN C Invisible Sunscreen SPF 50 PA+++ Australian Kakadu Plum also brightens skin and provides high protection.

SPF & Broad-Spectrum Protection

Choose a sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays. For daily use, dermatologists recommend at least SPF 30. However, SPF 50 is better for extended outdoor activities or those with fair or sensitive skin.

2. Cleanse and Prep Your Skin First

First, wash your face to remove oil, dirt, and old products. Then, apply toner or serum. Always wait for these to fully absorb before adding sunscreen.

3. Use the Right Amount of Sunscreen

Using too little sunscreen makes it less effective. For your face and neck, use about a nickel-sized amount. Many people skip this step or don't apply enough, leaving their skin unprotected.

4. How to Apply Sunscreen on Face

Applying sunscreen correctly is crucial for complete protection. Here's how to apply sunscreen on face:

1. Use Enough Sunscreen: Apply a nickel-sized amount to your face. For the face, neck, and chest, use more. The "two-finger rule" is also helpful.
2. Warm It Up: Rub sunscreen between your palms first. This helps it spread better and prevents streaks.
3. Dot It On: Apply dots on your forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, and eyelids. This ensures even coverage. Don't forget the hairline, sides of the nose, and around the eyes.
4. Pat It In: Use gentle pats to apply sunscreen. This helps it absorb better and avoids irritation.
5. Blend Outward: Start from the center of your face and move outwards. This avoids lines and ensures full coverage.
6. Be Careful Around Eyes and Lips: Use a lighter touch near the eyes. Consider mineral sunscreen for sensitivity. Use SPF lip balm or apply sunscreen carefully on the lips.
7. Don't Skip Neck and Chest: These areas need protection, too. Make it a habit to include them.
8. Let It Set: Allow sunscreen to absorb for a few minutes before adding other products. Aim to apply it 15-20 minutes before going outside.

5. Follow Up With Sunscreen on Your Neck and Ears

People often forget to protect their neck and ears from the sun. However, these areas are vulnerable to damage. So, apply sunscreen to your neck and a thin layer on your ears. If you are keeping your hair up, also apply sunscreen to the back of your neck.

6. How to Apply Sunblock vs. Sunscreen

"Sunblock" and "sunscreen" are often confused. However, sunblock is thicker and physically blocks UV rays. When applying sunblock, dab it on instead of rubbing. This creates a protective layer on the skin.

7. Allow Sunscreen to Absorb Fully Before Makeup

If you wear makeup, wait five minutes after applying sunscreen. This allows it to absorb fully. It also prevents pilling or streaking with other products. Then, you can apply your primer or foundation.

8. How to Put on Sunscreen in Layers for Reapplication

You need to learn how to put on sunscreen in layers for reapplication, especially during long sun exposure. For a lighter feel, use spray or powder sunscreens. Indoors, reapply every two hours. After swimming or sweating, switch to water-resistant sunscreen and reapply immediately. 

The Importance of Using Sunscreen Daily

Daily sun protection is vital for healthy skin and preventing potential damage. Sunscreen is not just for the beach or summer. UV rays are harmful all year, even on cloudy or cool days. The sun emits two main types of UV rays: UVA and UVB. Each affects our skin differently. Knowing this underscores the need for daily sun protection.

UVA rays make up 95% of UV radiation. They are consistent throughout the day and year. These rays penetrate deep into the skin, causing long-term damage. This damage includes wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. UVA rays also harm DNA in skin cells, increasing cancer risk. They can even get through windows, so indoor protection is necessary.

UVB rays are stronger in summer and peak at midday. However, they are also present in winter and on cloudy days. UVB rays mainly affect the skin's surface. They cause sunburns and redness. Over time, they can thicken the skin. Unprotected exposure raises the risk of skin cancer, especially melanoma. Severe or frequent sunburns are major risk factors. These often result from not using sunscreen properly.

Daily use of broad-spectrum sunscreen is key. This offers protection against both UVA and UVB rays. It prevents sunburn and reduces aging and cancer risks. Experts recommend a minimum SPF of 30. This blocks 97% of UVB rays. For extended outdoor activities, SPF 50 is better.

Sunscreen isn't the only protection. Wearing hats, UV-protective sunglasses, and special clothing is also important. Seeking shade, especially during peak hours, adds extra protection. Making sun protection a daily habit keeps skin healthy and youthful. It significantly lowers the risk of serious skin issues.

Conclusion

Shield your skin from harmful UV rays year-round for a healthier, more radiant complexion. It's important to learn how to use sunscreen, and choose products tailored to your skin type. Enhance protection with UPF clothing, shade-seeking, and hydration. This comprehensive approach guards against sunburn, premature aging, and skin damage. Sun safety isn't just for summer or sunny days - it's a daily necessity. Embrace these habits to cultivate beautiful, resilient skin that stands the test of time.