Sunscreen Tips: How to Use It Properly

Choosing a good sunscreen is only half the job. The protection printed on the label assumes the product is applied in the amount used during testing and reapplied as directed.

1. Choose broad-spectrum protection

Use a sunscreen labelled broad spectrum, or the equivalent UVA-protection designation in your country. Dermatology guidance commonly recommends SPF 30 or higher; some national authorities recommend SPF 50 or 50+ when sun protection is required.

2. Use enough sunscreen

Most people apply too little. For an average adult, roughly 30-35 mL is commonly recommended to cover the whole body. That is about one ounce or a little more than two tablespoons.

Use enough to cover all exposed skin evenly rather than trying to stretch a small amount over a large area.

3. Apply it before you go outside

Follow the directions on the label. Depending on the product and local guidance, sunscreen is commonly applied about 15-20 minutes before outdoor exposure.

Applying before getting dressed or before putting on swimwear can make it easier to cover edges around straps, sleeves and waistlines.

4. Reapply at least every two hours outdoors

Sunscreen does not provide all-day protection. Reapply at least every two hours while outdoors and sooner after swimming, heavy sweating or towel-drying.

Set a reminder on your phone if you tend to forget.

5. Water resistant does not mean waterproof

No sunscreen is completely waterproof. In the United States, water-resistant products are tested for either 40 or 80 minutes in water. Follow the reapplication directions on the label.

6. Do not miss the easy-to-forget areas

Commonly missed areas include:

• ears
• neck
• backs of the hands
• tops of the feet
• shoulders and bathing-suit edges
• exposed scalp or thinning hair

A broad-brimmed hat is particularly useful for the scalp, ears and face. Use an SPF lip product on exposed lips.

7. Be careful around the eyes

Use a formulation that does not run easily into the eyes. Sunscreen sticks can be convenient around the eye area. Sunglasses and a hat provide additional physical protection.

8. Do not rely on a very high SPF to compensate for poor application

Higher SPF provides greater sunburn protection, but only when enough product is used. An SPF 50 applied very thinly may provide much less protection than expected.

Learn more about what SPF ratings actually mean.

9. Check the expiry date and storage

Do not rely on expired sunscreen or a product that has been badly stored. Excessive heat can cause sunscreen to deteriorate faster.

Read our guide to sunscreen effectiveness, expiry and storage temperature.

10. Use the UV Index, not temperature, to judge UV risk

A cool or cloudy day can still have significant UV radiation. Check the local UV Index and follow public-health recommendations for your location.

Reflection from water, sand and snow can also increase exposure.

11. Sunscreen should not be your only protection

When UV levels are high, combine sunscreen with shade, clothing, a broad-brimmed hat and UV-protective sunglasses.

Clothing can be particularly useful because it provides a physical barrier that does not need to be reapplied. See our guides to UPF and sun-protective clothing.

Quick sunscreen checklist

• Broad spectrum.
• SPF 30 or higher, or follow the stronger recommendation used locally.
• Apply generously and evenly.
• Apply before outdoor exposure as directed.
• Reapply every two hours while outdoors.
• Reapply after swimming, sweating or towel-drying.
• Check expiry and storage conditions.
• Use other sun-protection measures as well.

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