As we enter the hottest, sunniest periods of the year here in South Africa, the conversation around sun protection inevitably heats up. And for good reason. Our country is blessed with abundant sunshine, but that blessing comes with a responsibility to look after our skin. Whether you are heading to the beach, going for a walk in your neighbourhood, or simply stepping out to run errands, your skin is exposed to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays every day.
Even on cloudy days and during the winter months, those rays are still at work. So, what exactly are the rules when it comes to sunscreen? Let us break it down.
What Exactly Is SPF?
First things first, let us talk about SPF. SPF stands for sun protection factor, which is a relative measure of the protection a sunscreen provides against ultraviolet rays.
The higher the SPF number, the greater the level of UVB protection. To give you a sense of the numbers, SPF 15 blocks approximately 93 per cent of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks about 97 per cent, and SPF 50 blocks roughly 98 per cent.
However, SPF is not a measure of how long you can stay in the sun without getting burned. How effective a sunscreen is depends on various factors, including how much you apply, the UV index on any given day, and whether your skin is sweating or you have been swimming. For this reason, the SPF value should be seen as more of a guide, and you should reapply regularly.
Which Sunscreen Should You Choose?
For day-to-day use, dermatologists recommend choosing a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. If you know you will be spending extended time outdoors, choose a product with SPF 60 or greater. This higher SPF helps compensate for the fact that most of us simply do not use as much sunscreen as we should. Look for a sunscreen that is water-resistant and offers broad-spectrum coverage, meaning it protects against both UVA and UVB rays. When that sunscreen is also a tinted formula containing iron oxides, you gain additional protection against developing dark spots, as iron oxide helps shield your skin from the sun’s visible light.
How Much Sunscreen Should You Use?
Now, let us address one of the most common mistakes people make: not using enough. You might think a quick dab here and there is sufficient, but in reality, adults need about 30 to 40 millilitres to cover the entire body. A helpful way to visualise this is to think of a shot glass filled to the brim. For the face and neck specifically, the two-finger rule is a simple and effective guide. Squeeze a strip of sunscreen along the length of your index and middle fingers; this is roughly the amount you need to cover your face and neck. Rub it thoroughly into your skin and don’t forget to blend it all the way down to your jawline and neck.
When Should You Apply Sunscreen?
Timing is another critical factor. Applying sunscreen as you step outside is not ideal. Instead, apply it approximately 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure. This allows enough time for the sunscreen to form a protective barrier on the skin.
The same goes for facial SPF. Whether you use a moisturiser with SPF or prefer a mineral sunscreen, apply it generously every day, come rain or shine, and top up every two hours.
Don’t Forget These Spots
Coverage is equally important. It’s easy to remember your face and arms, but don’t forget your neck, ears, the tops of your feet, and your legs. For hard-to-reach areas like your back, ask someone to help you or use a spray sunscreen. If you have thinning hair, either apply sunscreen to exposed areas of your scalp or wear a wide-brimmed hat. And don’t forget your lips; they need protection, too, so apply a lip balm with an SPF of at least 30.
How Often Should You Reapply?
To remain protected when outdoors, reapply sunscreen every two hours, and immediately after swimming or sweating. People who get sunburned may not have reapplied their sunscreen, may have used too little, or may have relied on a product that has expired.
If you work indoors and sit away from windows, you may not need a second application. However, be mindful of how often you step outside. Keep a spare bottle of sunscreen at your desk just to be safe. Even a short stroll at lunchtime could put your skin at risk.
Reapplication is especially important if you are wearing make-up. For many of us, removing and redoing all our make-up only to top up our sunscreen is simply not practical, so it’s no surprise that we tend to have a once-and-done approach. But reapplication is important and does make a difference.
Beyond UV: The Full Picture
It’s also worth noting that sun protection is not just about UV rays. Our skin is exposed to a broader range of environmental aggressors, including high-energy visible blue light from both the sun and indoor sources such as lighting and digital devices, as well as infrared radiation, pollution, and oxidative stress.
Over time, these factors can contribute to cumulative skin damage, including fine lines, wrinkles, loss of elasticity, hyperpigmentation, persistent redness, and inflammation.
Visible light can also exacerbate conditions such as melasma and rosacea and place ongoing stress on the skin barrier. This is one reason why a comprehensive approach to sun protection – combining sunscreen with protective clothing, sunglasses, hats, and shade – is so important.
A Final Word
If you feel you have developed sun-damaged skin, a dermatologist can examine your skin and make recommendations. Keep in mind that no sunscreen is perfect, and sunscreen should be just one part of your overall sun-protection routine.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, or other protective clothing, and seek shade whenever possible. So, whether you are on holiday or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, remember to use sunscreen generously, apply it before you step outside, cover every exposed area, and reapply regularly. Your skin will thank you for it.
