Proper use of sunscreen?! The sun – that shining star influencer – gives us vitamin D, but also wrinkles, freckles and, in the worst case, skin cancer. Not a fair deal, right? That's why sunscreen is the only "filter" your skin really needs every day – not only on the beach in Portorož or Mykonos, but also during your morning coffee on the balcony.
We talked to dermatologists (yes, the ones with Latin diplomas on the wall) who observe the consequences of solar indifference every day. And we have prepared 5 golden rules of use sun creams, which you need to know if you want your skin to stay more vintage Vogue than leather handbag from 1987. Correct use of sunscreen!
Proper use of sunscreen
✅ You have to do this!
1. Use a broad-spectrum SPF
Forget the SPF 15 from your high school bag. Dermatologists swear by it broad-spectrum protection, which protects you from UVA and UVB rays. UVA = aging, UVB = sunburn. Both together = skin apocalypse.
Dr. Sam Bunting warns that UVA rays can penetrate glass – meaning they can “burn” you even while you’re driving. Yes, that means the sun is burning your face. even during traffic jams on the Ljubljana bypass.
2. Choose the right type of sunscreen
Chemical or physical? This isn't a new reality show, but an important choice for your skin. Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays like SpongeBob's bad vibes, while physical sunscreens repel them—because they contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
Hint: Physical creams are better for sensitive skin or after beauty procedures. Yes, even after that precious microneedling treatment.
❌ This no you can do it!
3. Don't skimp on the amount of sunscreen
“Less is more” doesn’t apply here. If you’re using sunscreen like perfume—a little spritz on your nose—then you’re not protected. Dermatologists recommend at least a quarter teaspoon for face and neck. Yes, that's the amount that turns you into a glowing praying mantis for a few minutes. But hey—sunscreen isn't a fashion contest (although it should be).
4. Don't rely on SPF in your makeup
If you think SPF in a liquid foundation will save your skin, we have bad news. It's like wearing a paper helmet for a bike race. Most people don't apply enough makeup to get the protection they claim—so use a a dedicated cream with a sufficiently high SPF.
5. Don't use low SPF
SPF 15? You probably also use a Nokia 3310, right? For adult skin (and responsible living), you need at least SPF 30, even better SPF 50, especially if you're the type of person who "forgets" to reapply. A higher SPF doesn't give you permission to sunbathe for 8 hours without reapplying - but it's definitely a better start.
Conclusion: Win the battle against UV rays / proper use of sunscreen
The skin has a good memory. All those carelessnesses from your youthful summers – when you smeared yourself with olive oil because “aunt said it’s the fastest way to tan” – will come back to haunt you one day. So – use sunscreen correctly!
- choose a broad-spectrum SPF,
- use a sufficient amount,
- don't rely on makeup,
- and don't play Russian roulette with low SPF.
Your skin will thank you – if not today, then in 10 years, when you'll be the only one at the picnic without pigment spots in the shape of Hawaii.
Share this article with your friends who still think SPF is “just for the beach.” And tell them you love them – because protection is love.
