How Much Sunscreen Should Be Applied on the Face?

Sunscreen is a crucial component of your skincare routine as it protects your skin from harmful ultraviolet rays. You probably knew that already!

But are you applying enough? Maybe not.

Applying the right amount of sunscreen is often overlooked. Slathering on a random amount of sunscreen may not give you the protection you need.

So, how much face sunscreen to use for optimum protection?

That's what we are going to discuss in this blog today.

So, let's start.

How to Measure the Sunscreen Proportion?

According to dermatologists, you should apply about 2 milligrams of sunscreen per square centimetre of skin. So, how much amount of sunscreen to use on the face for effective protection?

It's easier to visualize than you think.

Here are a few ways.

Through Teaspoon

Using a teaspoon is an easy way to measure the right amount of sunscreen for your face. You should apply about 1/4 teaspoon of sunscreen daily. However, if you live in a sunny area, you should ideally be using 1/3 teaspoon.

Are you someone who gets easily sunburned? If you do, you should also use 1/3 teaspoon of sunscreen on your face every day.

Through SPF Rating

SPF 15, SPF 30, SPF 50 - You must have seen such labels on your sunblock. What do these labels mean?

SPF or Sun Protection Factor measures your sunscreen's ability to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. SPF 15 blocks out about 93% of ultraviolet rays. It allows you to stay in the sun 15 times longer than you could without protection. For instance, if your unprotected skin turns red in 10 minutes in the sun, with SPF 15 sunscreen, it would turn red in 150 minutes (10x15 minutes).

SPF 30 offers more protection than SPF 15 and blocks out about 97% of the ultraviolet rays. SPF 50 offers the highest level of protection of the three and blocks out about 98% of the harmful ultraviolet rays. Dermatologists recommend SPF 30 or above for maximum protection.

So, how much SPF sunscreen to use on the face? Well, stick to 0.04 ounces or about 1/4 teaspoon.

Through Milliliters

In this section, we will discuss how much sunscreen to apply on the face in milliliters. If you have a measuring pitcher or syringe at home, this would come in handy when measuring the right amount of sunscreen for your face. Use a syringe to measure out about 1 to 2 milliliters of sunscreen, as that's how much you should be applying on your face.

Through Grams

Are you more comfortable visualizing something by weight? Well, this method is for you.

If you are wondering how much sunscreen to apply on the face in grams, the answer is 1 to 2 grams.

However, measuring in grams may be slightly tricky as sunscreens are now available in creams, lotions, liquids, and even sprays. All these can have different weights.

Through Fingers

Need to apply sunscreen on the go? Use your trusty fingers to measure the right amount of sunscreen for your face.

Typically, one finger length of sunscreen is enough for your face. However, if you need to cover your face as well as your neck, you need two finger lengths of sunscreen.

Through Shot Glass

Did you think you could measure how much sunscreen to apply on the face with a shot glass? Probably not. Nevertheless, it can be an exciting way to measure the amount of sunscreen on your face.

So, how much do you need? Just enough to fill the bottom of your shot glass.

Sunscreen Application Method

Knowing how much sunblock to apply on the face is very important. But it is equally important to know the right way to apply sunscreen on your face for maximum effectiveness.

Start by cleaning your face with a mild cleanser and then use a soft towel to pat dry. Now, apply whatever toner, essence, serum, or moisturizer you use in your daily skincare routine. Once you are through with your skincare routine, it is now time to apply sunscreen.

Now that you know how much sunscreen to apply on your face, take the said amount on your palm. Now pick it up with the fingertip of your other hand and dot it on your face and then massage it in. The dip and dot method gives you the most even application on your face.

Remember to apply sunscreen to your temples, hairline, and even behind your ears.

You should ideally be able to use sunscreen on your eyelids.

If you want to apply makeup, do so over your sunscreen.

When to Apply Sunscreen?

Sunscreen application should be an integral part of your daily skincare routine, regardless of the weather or your plans for the day. You should apply sunscreen before stepping out in the sun but also when indoors. Ultraviolet rays can easily penetrate through your windows, so protecting your skin every day is crucial for its health.

If you plan to spend time outdoors, apply sunscreen at least 15 to 30 minutes before going outside. This allows the sunscreen to fully absorb into your skin and provide effective protection.

Over time, sunscreen wears off, especially if you're swimming, sweating, or toweling off. Hence, reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you're engaging in activities that may cause it to wear off more quickly. Even if your sunscreen claims to be water-resistant, it's still important to reapply after swimming or sweating profusely.

Conclusion

Determining how much sunscreen to use on face is crucial for effective sun protection and maintaining healthy skin. Regardless of how you measure your sunscreen, with your fingers or a teaspoon, ensure that you apply it the right way. Remember, protecting your skin today will contribute to its health and beauty in the long run. So, the next time you reach for that sunscreen bottle, measure it right and let your skin thank you for it!