Beauty And The Beach: Study Up On SPF

Think you know everything about SPF? Think again... Photo: Instagram

DO apply more than you think “Research shows that a lot of people don’t apply enough sunscreen so don’t get the amount of protection advised on the label,” warns Craig Sinclair, chair of Cancer Council Australia’s public health committee. Regardless of formula, the same rules apply: stick to SPF 30 or higher, and use at least one teaspoon for each limb, the front and back of the body, and the face, neck and ears.

DON’T forget to reapply You know you should apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading outdoors – it’s the reapplication that stumps many. As a rule of thumb, reapply the same amount of SPF every two hours, or more regularly if you are being active and sweating, or towel-drying, explains Sinclair.

DO multiply your protection “No sunscreen offers a shield of armour from the sun, so use other forms of cover too – protective clothing, a broad brimmed hat and sunglasses. Plus, seek shade when UV levels are three or above,” advises Sinclair.

DON’T play the numbers game “It’s important not to overestimate how much extra protection SPF 50+ sunscreens offer compared to SPF 30,” says Sinclair – the former filters out 98 per cent of UVB radiation, while the latter blocks 96.7 per cent. “There is a bit of a myth that using an SPF 50+ means you can stay in the sun longer, but that definitely isn’t the case and you still need to reapply every two hours,” he says.

Five to try:

1. Zinc is a “very effective UV blocker and best for smaller body parts likely to get intense levels of UV exposure”, says Sinclair. Try Key Sun Zinke Clear Zinke Stick SPF 30+, $3.99.

2. Aerosols are easy to apply and dry quickly. Try Cancer Council Active Oil-Free Sunscreen SPF 50+, $18.45.

3. Sticks can be greasier than other forms of sunblock, so reserve for the lips, nose and ears. Try La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL Stick SPF 50+, $22.95.

4. Finger sprays feel light on the skin thanks to the pump delivery system. Try Banana Boat EveryDay SPF 50+ Finger Spray, $16.99.

5. Lotions aren’t as heavy as cream formulas. Try Reef Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30+, $11.49.