If you’ve ever been lucky enough to visit Australia, you’ll know that it can be a harsh place with extremely intense sunlight. That’s why Australian sunscreen products – created by companies like Blue Lizard – have been formulated to meet the highest possible standards of sun safety.
The thing is, if you want to enjoy all the advantages products like these provide, it’s important that you follow the rules in terms of how they’re supposed to be applied. So, be sure to keep reading as we cover some of the main dos and don’ts.
Using Australian Sunscreen in the Right Way
Everyone thinks they know exactly how to use Australian sunscreen and products like theirs, however, a surprising number of people make small mistakes that can compromise the protection they’re getting. With this in mind, let’s look first at the ‘Do’s’.
Do Choose an SPF 30 or Higher
It’s crucial to choose the right mineral sunscreen for your skin. Most people are best served by a product with an SPF of 30 or higher. On the other hand, if you’re going to be outside for a prolonged period – particularly if it’s between 10 am and 4 pm – you might want to go for an SPF 50 for extra protection.
Do Apply Enough Sunscreen
A super common reason why people run into trouble in the sun is when they don’t put enough sunscreen on. When applying, you should use enough to fill a shot glass (30 ml) and rub it in evenly across the skin. If you’re just doing your face, you’ll only need a quarter of a teaspoon.
Do Reapply Every Two Hours
Even the best mineral sunscreens last only two hours. This applies to all sunscreen types. However, if you’re working up a sweat or swimming, you should reapply every 40 to 80 minutes if using a water-resistant formula. If your sunscreen is not water-resistant, it’s important to reapply immediately after water exposure and you always need to reapply after towel drying, regardless of when you last applied. Not all mineral sunscreens are water-resistant, so check the label.
Some Don’ts of Using Mineral Sunscreen
Now we look at the things you should be avoiding when applying mineral sunscreen. They break down in the following way…
Don’t Just Rely on Sunscreen
Sunscreen is perhaps the most effective sun safety option, but it’s far from being the only one. You could also choose to wear sunglasses, a sunhat and loose, light-colored, well-ventilated clothing. Also, if you can make use of shade where you find it, you’ll get lots of extra protection.
Don’t Use Expired Sunscreen
Like any product, sunscreen goes out of date. When it does, it loses its ability to create a UV barrier – even if it looks fine. As such, if you check the expiration date (usually printed somewhere on the product) and it’s in the past, it’s time to invest in a new bottle!
Don’t Skip Less Obvious Areas
Many people apply sunscreen to their face and arms but forget all about areas that are just as vulnerable to sun damage. Commonly missed spots include ears, the back of the neck, hands, tops of the feet, and even the scalp. Be thorough and cover all exposed skin to ensure full protection.
Ensuring Your Australian Sunscreen Protects You Fully
Top-quality sunscreens like the ones we’ve been talking about are designed to protect you. However, that’s on the assumption that you’re applying them frequently enough, in the right quantity and achieving full coverage all over your exposed skin.
Follow the advice we’ve given you here today and you should be able to enjoy the sunshine knowing your skin is 100% safe and healthy.
