You could be making this big mistake when applying sun cream

From Prima

We all know the importance of wearing sun cream, but you've probably been applying sunscreen wrong. Just because you apply it once doesn't mean your skin is fully protected.

Experts from King's College London are warning that our haphazard approach to sun cream application means people are getting less than half the sun protection they anticipate from the lotions. The findings from new research, which come as the UK is experiencing sweltering temperatures, showed that when a sun cream with sun protection factor (SPF) 50 was applied in a typical way, it provided only 40% of the protection expected.

The study, which involved a group of 16 fair-skinned volunteers who were split into two groups, analysed how much protection people get from wearing varying amounts of sunscreen with different SPF strengths.

One group received a blast of UV exposure, to simulate sunlight, to areas treated with high SPF sunscreen of varying thickness, ranging from 0.75mg to 2mg/cm². The other group received exposures on five consecutive days – to mimic continuous holiday exposure.

Damage was reduced when sunscreen was applied at a thickness of 0.75mg/cm² and considerably reduced when 2mg/cm² of sunscreen was applied. Skin biopsies also found that those in the 'holiday group' who wore sunscreen at the higher thickness were given the most significant protection from damage.

'There is no dispute that sunscreen provides important protection against the cancer causing impact of the sun's ultra violet rays,' report author, Professor Antony Young explained. 'However, what this research shows is that the way sunscreen is applied plays an important role in determining how effective it is.

'Given that most people don't use sunscreens as tested as tested by manufacturers, it's better for people to use a much higher SPF than they think is necessary.'

Nina Goad, from theBritish Association of Dermatologists, said the research highlights why it's vital to choose sun lotions with SPF 30 or more. 'It also shows why we shouldn't rely on sunscreen alone for sun protection, but we should also use clothing and shade,' Goad added. 'An extra consideration is that when we apply sunscreen, we are prone to missing patches of skin, as well as applying it too thinly.'

How to apply sunscreen

The British Association of Dermatologists suggests following these rules when putting on sun cream:

• Adults should apply at least six full teaspoons (36 grams) of sun lotion to cover the body.

• This is equivalent to more than half a teaspoon of sunscreen to each arm and the face/neck (including ears), and just over one teaspoon to each leg, front of body and back of body.

• Sunscreen should be put on 15 to 30 minutes before going out in the sun.

• Sunscreen should be topped up regularly, particularly after swimming or if it has rubbed off.

Find more sun cream application tips at bad.org.uk.

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