How to Use Sunscreen for Maximum Effectiveness
Using sunscreen effectively is not only about choosing the right product. The way you apply it, the amount you use, and how often you reapply it are equally important for achieving optimal sun protection.
According to skincare experts, the recommended amount of sunscreen for the face is approximately the size of a 500-yen coin, which helps ensure adequate protection against harmful UV rays.
This recommendation is based on guidance from Koji Ono, Vice Director of the Japan Skincare Association and Associate Professor at a Beauty & Wellness Professional University, who shared practical advice on how to select and use sunscreen correctly.
Three Key Factors for Effective Sun Protection
To maximize the benefits of sunscreen, pay attention to these three important factors:
- Proper application technique
2. Sufficient application amount
3. Regular reapplication throughout the day
How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly
1. Moisturize Your Skin First
Before applying sunscreen, use a lotion, essence, or moisturizer to hydrate your skin. Well-moisturized skin helps sunscreen spread more evenly and adhere better to the skin’s surface.
2. Apply Sunscreen Before Makeup
Sunscreen should always be applied before foundation or other makeup products. This allows the protective layer to form directly on the skin.
3. Use the Five-Point Application Method
Apply sunscreen to five areas of the face:
Forehead
Left cheek
Right cheek
Nose
Chin
Then gently spread the product outward from the center of the face until it is evenly distributed.
How Much Sunscreen Should You Use?
Experts recommend using approximately the amount of sunscreen equivalent to the size of a 500-yen coin for the face.
In reality, however, many people apply only about the amount equivalent to a 100-yen coin, which may not provide sufficient protection against UV exposure.Using an adequate amount is essential for achieving the SPF protection stated on the product label.When Should You Reapply Sunscreen?
Throughout the day, sunscreen can gradually wear off due to:
- Touching or rubbing the face
For this reason, sunscreen should ideally be reapplied every two hours, especially when spending extended periods outdoors.However, at Jurness, we believe that minimizing unnecessary contact with the face and choosing a water-resistant, sweat-resistant sunscreen can help maintain protection for longer and reduce the need for frequent reapplication.Frequently Asked Questions About Sunscreen
What Does SPF 50 Mean?
SPF (Sun Protection Factor) indicates the level of protection against UVB rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn and skin redness.As a general guideline, SPF 1 provides approximately 20 minutes of UVB protection under standard testing conditions.Therefore, SPF 50 theoretically offers up to 1,000 minutes (approximately 16–17 hours) of protection. However, actual protection may vary depending on factors such as sweating, swimming, skin type, and environmental conditions.How Should You Cleanse Your Skin After Using Sunscreen?There are two common methods:
Method 1Remove sunscreen with a cleansing product first.Follow with a facial cleanser or face wash.
Method 2If a cleansing product is not available, wash your face using a facial cleanser or soap twice to help remove sunscreen residue thoroughly.JURNESS RecommendationAt JURNESS, we prefer using Jurness Creamy Wash as a single-step facial cleanser. By gently massaging the cleanser onto the skin and rinsing thoroughly with clean water, it effectively removes impurities while simplifying your skincare routine.This approach helps save time, reduces unnecessary cleansing steps, and may minimize the risk of irritation caused by excessive washing.
