How Much Sunscreen to Use on Your Face
From just a dab on the nose to a thick, white mask, there’s a wide spectrum of interpretations to the question: “How much sunscreen to use on your face?” This guide will help you stay thoroughly protected without looking like a mime.
Why Facial Sunscreen Is Important
Facial sunscreen is an important line of defense for healthy skin for the long-term. In clinical terms, facial sunscreen aids in mitigating the following:
- Sunburn from harmful UVB rays, which increases the risk of developing skin cancer
- Premature aging in the form of sunspots, wrinkles, and sagging
- Risk of skin cancer from both UVA and UVB rays (be sure to use broad spectrum sunscreen)
- Inflammation from UV rays
The Correct Amount of Sunscreen to Use on Your Face
Dermatologists will tell you how much sunscreen to use in terms of ounces or milliliters, but we all know you’re not bringing a measuring cup with you to the beach. Here are a couple of life hacks to make sure you’re applying the right amount of sunscreen to your face:
- Fingers: Use your middle and pointer fingers as your unit of measurement. Apply a strip of sunscreen to both fingers, then smooth it onto your skin. That way you won’t use too little. Ouch.
- Coins: The nickel is the best-size coin for this trick. Imagine you’re covering a nickel in sunscreen and transfer that amount to your face and neck.
What SPF to Choose for Your Face
While any broad-spectrum sunscreen is better than none at all, keep in mind the following: SPF 15 blocks about 93 percent of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97 percent, and SPF 50 blocks 98 percent. Since your face is where signs of sun damage and aging are most prominent, dermatologists recommend a minimum of SPF 30 on the face. It’s also important to choose a sunscreen that is broad spectrum, protecting you from both UVA and UVB rays.
How to Apply Sunscreen to Your Face
Without a consistent application method, you’re going to occasionally miss some spots (and then pay the price later). To avoid uneven sun protection, we recommend the DDS method (otherwise known as “Dip, Dot, and Smear”):
- Take your allotted sunscreen amount in the palm of your hand.
- Use your index finger to dip, dot the product onto your forehead, nose, cheeks, and chin.
- Smear it in using gentle, upward motions for thorough, even application.
Don’t forget secondary but critical exposed parts, like the neck, hairline, temples, ears, and neckline (décolletage) region.
How Often to Reapply Sunscreen to Your Face
As a rule, sunscreen should be re-applied every two hours. However, if you’re extra active or going in and out of the water, we recommend more frequent re-application. The face is especially vulnerable to sunscreen wearing off more quickly due to sweat, contact, and toweling off.
What Type of Sunscreen Is Safe to Use on Your Face?
Your face benefits from a meticulous application routine and a higher SPF. We recommend SPF 30 or higher, applied daily and re-applied for outdoor activities. Mineral vs. non-mineral sunscreens come down to personal preference. Test and find what works for your skin type.
Facial Sunscreen FAQs
Can You Put Too Much Sunscreen on Face?
Yes, you can overdo it. Beyond thorough coverage, excess sunscreen is unnecessary and wasteful. Using methods like the nickel or two-finger techniques ensures the right amount.
Which Goes on First, Moisturizer or Sunscreen?
If you’re using non-mineral sunscreen, apply it before moisturizer. For mineral formulas, apply it after moisturizer, as it acts as a physical barrier.
What Happens if You Don’t Wash Sunscreen Off Your Face?
Leaving sunscreen on can clog pores and cause irritation. Always wash it off after sun exposure to maintain healthy skin.