Do you apply enough sunscreen?
Most Australians do not apply enough sunscreen when they go out into the sun. Research has shown that typical we apply half or less of the amount we should apply. If you apply less, then you do not have the protection you thought you had. This can lead to an increase risk of sunburn and increase you chance of melanoma and skin cancer.
How much should we apply?
When sunscreens are tested for the TGA (Therapeutic Goods Authority), they work on a minimum of 2g/m2 to calculate the SPF value you see on the packaging. If you apply less than this, you will halve or less the actual SPF that you think you are getting.
It is easy to think about it in terms of teaspoons or perhaps golf ball sized amounts. For the average adult, you should be applying a golf ball amount (or two tablespoons) to the whole body with each aplication.
I have created this video below to help explain things further.
Also do not forget to:
- Apply your sunscreen 20mins before you go outside so it has time to settle into the skin (epidermis);’
- Reapply after 2 hours;
- Check the expiry date of the sunscreen you use;
- Store your sunscreen carefully because if it’s exposed to heat over 40C for long periods of time it can ‘cook’ the sunscreen and decrease its efficacy.