As a skincare expert, I am often asked about the recommended amount of water resistant SPF to use per application. With the increasing awareness of the harmful effects of UV rays, more and more people are incorporating sunscreen into their daily routine. However, not everyone knows the proper way to apply it, especially when it comes to water resistant formulas. Before we dive into the recommended amount, let's first understand what water resistant SPF means.
Sunscreens are classified as water resistant if they maintain their stated level of protection after 40 minutes of water exposure. Some may even claim to be very water resistant, which means they can last up to 80 minutes in water. It is important to note that water resistant does not mean waterproof. No sunscreen can provide 100% protection against water and sweat.
Therefore, it is crucial to reapply sunscreen after swimming or sweating heavily. The general rule of thumb for sunscreen application is to use at least a shot glass worth of product for the entire body. However, this amount may vary depending on your body size and the type of sunscreen you are using. When it comes to water resistant SPF, it is recommended to use a generous amount and apply it evenly on all exposed areas.
The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using one ounce (equivalent to two tablespoons) of sunscreen for the entire body. This amount should be enough to cover all exposed areas, including the face, neck, arms, and legs. For those with longer hair, don't forget to apply sunscreen on your scalp as well. When using water resistant sunscreen, it is important to pay extra attention to areas that are more prone to sun exposure, such as the shoulders, back, and chest.
These areas tend to sweat more, making the sunscreen less effective over time. Therefore, it is crucial to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating heavily. You may be wondering, why is the amount of sunscreen so important? Well, the answer lies in the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) number. The SPF number indicates how long it takes for UVB rays to redden the skin when using a sunscreen compared to not using any sunscreen at all.
For example, if your skin starts to burn after 10 minutes of sun exposure without any protection, an SPF 30 sunscreen will provide 30 times longer protection, which is 300 minutes or five hours. However, this is only true if you use the recommended amount of sunscreen. Using less than the recommended amount will result in a lower level of protection. For example, if you use half the recommended amount of an SPF 30 sunscreen, you will only get an SPF of 15. This means your skin will start to burn after 150 minutes or two and a half hours.
As mentioned earlier, water resistant sunscreens are not waterproof. They can only provide protection for a limited amount of time in water or when sweating heavily. Therefore, it is crucial to reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating heavily. Reapplication is also important because sunscreen can rub off or get washed away over time.
This is especially true for water resistant formulas, as they tend to be thicker and more difficult to absorb into the skin. By reapplying sunscreen, you are ensuring that your skin is continuously protected from harmful UV rays. Aside from the recommended amount, there are other factors to consider when using water resistant SPF. These include the type of sunscreen, your skin type, and the level of sun exposure.
Firstly, it is important to choose a sunscreen that suits your skin type. For those with oily or acne-prone skin, opt for a lightweight and non-comedogenic formula. If you have sensitive skin, look for sunscreens that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic. Secondly, the level of sun exposure also plays a role in determining how much sunscreen you should use.
If you are going to be outdoors for an extended period, it is recommended to use more than the recommended amount and reapply more frequently. In conclusion, the recommended amount of water resistant SPF to use per application is at least one ounce (two tablespoons) for the entire body. This amount may vary depending on your body size and the type of sunscreen you are using. It is also important to reapply sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating heavily.
Remember, sunscreen is your first line of defense against harmful UV rays. By using the recommended amount and reapplying regularly, you are not only protecting your skin from sun damage but also reducing your risk of developing skin cancer.
