Question: How much sunscreen is enough?
Answer: More than you’d think!
You need to apply at least 35-40 mL for a single adult in one application – approximately a cupped adult handful – and always before you go into the sun.
Sunscreen must be applied generously to all areas of exposed skin 15-20 minutes before sun exposure. Use at least a teaspoon for each limb – four limbs requires four teaspoons; at least a teaspoon for the front of your body; another teaspoon for your back, and one more teaspoon to cover your face, neck and ears. This adds up to seven teaspoons or a minimum of 35 mL for an adult body.
You will need to reapply your sunscreen every two hours at least, more often when perspiring and always reapply after swimming or towelling off. Even water resistant sunscreen must be reapplied this way.
The other vitally important thing to do is to wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun and seek shade as often as you can. You don’t need a sunburn to be affected by heat.
In a nutshell:
- Apply generously 15 – 20 minutes before going into the sun
- Use at last 35 mL for each application
- Reapply every 2 hours or more often when sweating
- Always reapply immediately after swimming or towelling off
- Do not use on broken, damaged or irritated skin
- Wear protective clothing, hats and eyewear when exposed to the sun
- Avoid prolonged exposure in the sun
- Seek shade at every opportunity
- Stay hydrated