How to Properly Apply – and Reapply - Sunscreen

By now, you probably know you need to wear sunscreen every day, not just when you’re hitting the beach or spending any significant time outside on a sunny day. But you may not be aware that proper sunscreen use is about much more than slapping on a product with sufficient SPF.

In reality, you’re only protected if you’re using the right application (and reapplication) technique. The fact is that proper daily sunscreen use is required if you want to get all the benefits, particularly preventing skin cancer and premature skin ageing.

Here’s what you need to know to stay covered all summer long:

As it turns out, Neutrogena’s experts say, your sun protection routine needs to start before you arrive at the beach. To be properly protected, you need to apply sunscreen to your entire body at least 20 minutes before you’re exposed to the sun. Sunscreen’s ingredients need time to sink into your skin before they can effectively do the job.

In addition, to get the SPF coverage depicted on the package, you need to apply at least 30g, or a golf-ball sized amount, to your entire body.

Strictly following the directions on the label will help to ensure the maximum duration of protection is achieved.

So, you’ve applied your sunscreen, and you’re ready for a day by the ocean. Think you’re good to go? Not so fast …

You’ll want to stash your product in the beach bag because you’ll need to reapply at least every two hours. If you’re sweating or swimming, make sure you reapply immediately afterwards.

An easy way to stay covered is a spray sunscreen, such as Neutrogena^® Beach Defence^® Sunscreen Spray or Neutrogena® Ultra Sheer® Body Mist.

If you’re using spray sunscreen, it’s best to spray the skin liberally by holding the can 10-15cm from skin, spray until it glistens and gently spread for even and complete coverage. Be sure to always read the label and use only as directed.

 Concerned about Greasiness?  Try Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer range, which has a range of SPF50 broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreens formulated to be non greasy, non shiny for a matte finish. Plus the range is made in Australia.

 Don’t forget!  Apply sunscreen if you use Retinol based skin care products as the last step in your daily face skincare regime.

So, you’ve applied your sunscreen, and you’re ready for a day by the ocean. Think you’re good to go? Not so fast …

You’ll want to stash your product in the beach bag because you’ll need to reapply at least every two hours. If you’re sweating or swimming, make that every 80 minutes.

An easy way to stay covered is a spray sunscreen, such as Neutrogena^® Beach Defence^® Sunscreen Spray or Neutrogena® Ultra Sheer® Body Mist.

If you’re using spray sunscreen, it’s best to spray the skin liberally by holding the can 10-15cm from skin, spray until it glistens and gently spread for even and complete coverage. Be sure to always read the label and use only as directed.