Though we all know how vital it is to wear sunscreen in Australia, understanding how much to use and how often it should be applied can be harder to stay across.
Making sure to wear sunscreen every day (both when outdoors and indoors) is the most important skincare step you can take. The right application and use of sunscreen provides protection against harmful sun damage, and offers anti-ageing benefits. Regular use will help to protect skin from premature skin ageing such as fine lines, wrinkles, age spots and loss of firmness.
To know which sunscreen product is best for your skin type and how best to use it, read through our comprehensive guide below.
CHOOSING A SUNSCREEN
The risk of sun damage in Australia is especially high. Choosing the right sunscreen for your skin type will ensure it meets your skin needs while also allowing you to address your specific skin concerns and goals. SPF (sun protection factor) is the measure of how long it takes for UVB rays to burn skin. SPF50+ is the highest level of protection available in Australia. We recommend using sunscreen with SPF50+ to ensure your skin has the highest level or protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Our range of Anthelios sun protection products provide a very high level of protection against UVA and UVB radiation while helping you to achieve hydrated, soft skin.
ALWAYS READ THE LABEL. FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE.
Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure. Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection so wear protective clothing and seek shade. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Reapply every 2 hours and after swimming, towelling and perspiring in accordance with directions.
DRY SKIN VS OILY SKIN
Those with dry skin types are more susceptible to loss of moisture. Using a sunscreen with a nourishing formula will help to lock in and maintain water levels. Our Anthelios Ultra Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+ uses Glycerin to keep skin hydrated while protecting from UVA and UVB rays. For a moisturising sunscreen that also provides light tinted coverage, use Anthelios Ultra BB Cream SPF 50+. This BB Cream has been specifically formulated to moisturise and protect dry, sensitive skin.
An overproduction of sebum results in skin that feels oily. To protect against this, look for lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores like our Anthelios Invisible Fluid Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+. For those with oily or acne-prone skin, our Anthelios XL Anti-Shine Dry Touch Facial Sunscreen SPF 50+ includes a mattifying formula to absorb excess oil, sebum and sweat for an anti-shine finish.
HOW MUCH SUNSCREEN TO APPLY
The amount of sunscreen you apply determines how protected you are from the sun’s harmful rays. According to the Melanoma Institute of Australia, most Australians apply less than half the amount they should. When you are outside, or indoors and near a window, it’s integral that you reapply the right amount (about a full shot glass or 40ml for the whole body). Any body part that is exposed to sun requires SPF protection. For each body part, the TGA recommends using a teaspoon amount for each limb, front and back of body, and a half teaspoon across your face, neck and ears.
WHEN TO APPLY SUNSCREEN IN A SKINCARE ROUTINE?
Skincare routines with multiple steps can be tricky to keep in order. The general rule is to use sunscreen as the last step in your skincare routine. This will ensure that the shield of protection supplied by the sunscreen won’t be disrupted by the application of other skincare products. Apply a sunscreen like our Anthelios XL Anti-Shine Dry Touch Tinted Sunscreen SPF 50+ after your moisturiser (and as the last step in your skincare routine). This will help to lock in water and form a protective barrier
WHICH AREAS SHOULD YOU FOCUS ON?
Any area of skin which is exposed to the sun should be protected by sunscreen. Make sure to follow this routine every day.
WHICH AREAS ARE COMMONLY MISSED?
Certain parts of our bodies are often missed when applying sunscreen. The back of our necks, tops of our ears and hands are all commonly missed areas. Around the face, lips and areas around eyes are often left unprotected. Your scalp is also prone to sunburn, so when not wearing a hat make sure to apply sunscreen there too. When you can’t avoid the sun, make sure that any exposed area of skin is covered.
WHEN TO REAPPLY SUNSCREEN
Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours throughout the day. After sweating or towelling you should always reapply. If swimming, you can use a water resistant formula like the Anthelios XL Wet Skin Sunscreen SPF 50+. Reapply after swimming or towelling.
SHOULD YOU WEAR SUNSCREEN INDOORS?
Regular glass windows block UVB rays but let through UVA rays, which can contribute to premature skin ageing and some skin cancers. If you’re sitting near a window at home or work, wear sunscreen and reapply every two hours.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR SUNSCREEN TO ABSORB?
Sunscreen takes approximately 15-20 minutes to absorb into skin. Apply before sun exposure, and make sure that your sunscreen is still in date. Our sunscreens have a 3 year shelf-life and once opened should be used within 12 months.
Now that you understand the best use and application of sunscreen, find out more about wearing sunscreen in winter.
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