How Much Sunscreen You Need to Apply on Your Face, Based on the Type You Use

It’s been said many times that we may have stopped wondering why, and if you need a reminder, sunscreen doesn’t just help you age gracefully. The research study Sunscreen Application, Safety, and Sun Protection: The Evidence presents “strong evidence supporting the safety profile of sunscreens and their efficacy in photoaging and melanoma and NMSC prevention.” In other words, it helps protect us from skin cancer. 

For sunscreen to have accurate effectiveness, it’s important to be consistent and to apply the proper amount. If not, then we won’t get the protective properties that make us want to apply sunscreen in the first place.

Sunscreen now comes in a variety of forms, so there are different ways to apply them. Here’s a short and sweet guide, so you can get the most from your sunscreen regardless of your preference.

Sunscreen that comes in a fluid, lotion-like consistency is a common choice. It often has a lightweight texture and an ability to blend seamlessly and absorb quickly.

The aforementioned study concluded that one to two teaspoons is an ample amount for the face and the neck. Another way to measure it is the famous two-finger method, which means creating two lines of sunscreen from the base to the tips of your index and middle fingers.

Sun sticks are gaining popularity, with many innovations like tinted versions being introduced to the market. For some, putting on the first layer of sunscreen is already a chore—what more reapplying it throughout the day? Sun sticks are the answer to finally seeing sun care as a quick and easy step. However, you shouldn’t apply it for the sake of applying it.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), four passes back and forth (a total of eight swipes per area) is the minimum amount for sun sticks to be effective. You have to rub and massage it in afterwards, as this ensures an even layer of coverage.

We can’t have a conversation on convenient sun care without mentioning sprays. This handy and hygienic choice works well for all, especially for children who, for some reason, despise having sunscreen applied onto their skin. Spray sunscreen can undeniably be refreshing too, but don’t be fooled—one spritz isn’t enough and ample coverage isn’t always assured.

As the AAD explained, the nozzle must be positioned close to the skin, followed by a generous amount of spray. The same rule remains that one to two teaspoons of sunscreen is needed for the face and the neck, so imagine how many sprays you’d need to achieve that. To avoid inhalation concerns, missing various spots, and applying unevenly, you can also spray the product into your hand and rub it gently on your face.