Sunscreen isn’t just for the summer, it’s a year-round requirement. From your face to your body and even your scalp, SPF is crucial to preventing sunburns, hyperpigmentation, and cancer.
But sunscreen application isn’t just a one and done process. Everything from how much SPF you apply to how often you touch up is equally important.
To help perfect your sunscreen routine, we spoke with several board-certified dermatologists to find out the actual right way to apply SPF and their recommendations for every occasion.
"The SPF value of a sunscreen is measured based on a density of 2 mg/cm² on the skin. If you’re applying a concentration less than that, then you are not getting the level of protection labeled on the bottle," said Dr. Josh Zeichner. This means about a quarter-sized dollop of a traditional liquid sunscreen.
“Whether you’re talking about sunscreen on the face or on the body, it must be reapplied every two hours, or immediately after heavy sweating or swimming.”
Technically, we should all be applying SPF from head (yes, we mean your scalp) to toe.
"Layering sunscreen products is a great way to ensure you are getting the protection you want. Using a stick sunscreen as your first layer will provide the foundation you need for proper UV protection," Dr. Zeichner says.
You can also apply SPF-infused makeup, like primers or skin tints, atop your sunscreen for an added layer of protection that won’t interfere with your routine.
In terms of body application, a foolproof hack is to first layer on an SPF cream and follow it up with a spray to ensure you don’t miss any spots.
Since sunscreen should ideally be re-applied every two hours, that means you’ll likely have to add an additional layer of SPF over your makeup.
Dr. Zeichner said what we were all thinking, "I find that sunscreen after your makeup can be a challenge.”
The solution? "Setting sprays with SPF are a great option. Alternatively, sunscreen sprays or mists can be essentially airbrushed onto the skin without disrupting the work you spent putting your makeup on." Just be sure not to spray it in your eyes or mouth.
According to Dr. Reszk, this is "A high-SPF sunscreen that offers strong, reliable protection in a smooth, moisturizing texture suitable for both face and body."
This formula is loved by Dr. Zeichner and it's easy to see why! The solid stick format makes it easy to glide on during any summer adventure, keeping you protected against UVA and UVB rays.
Dr. Reszk describes this celebrity-loved SPF as "A lightweight, zinc oxide–based sunscreen that is particularly well suited for acne- and rosacea-prone skin, with a tinted option that helps minimize white cast while calming and protecting sensitive skin."
Colorscience's Sunforgettable Brush-On Sunscreen is also a product that Dr. Mehr recommends. "It's really nice because you can brush it up on your hairline and on your scalp," she said. It protects you from UVA/UVB rays, pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation. It's also available in multiple shades to match different skin tones.
Dr. Mehr recommends this spray sunscreen from EltaMD to protect your scalp. It's lightweight, non-greasy and contains zinc oxide, which provides protection from UVA and UVB rays. Just keep in mind that it may leave a white residue due to the titanium and zinc.
Dr. Resk suggests this "completely transparent, weightless formula that blends seamlessly into the skin and works especially well under makeup.
Dr. Joshua Zeichner is an board-certified dermatologist, Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
Dr. Anetta Reszko is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic Mohs surgeon with over 15 years of experience.
Dr. Neda Mehr is a board-certified dermatologist, who specializes in Non-surgical cosmetic treatments, acne, and acne treatments, correcting dark spots in ethnic skin, anti aging and hair loss.
Your scalp can get sunburned too—these derm-approved sunscreens have you covered.
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