How regularly does sunscreen have to be applied and how much?
Sunscreen should be applied to clean, dry skin 20 minutes before going outside. It is recommended that an average sized adult use one teaspoon of product on each arm and leg, one teaspoon on the back and one teaspoon on the torso. One teaspoon should be applied to the face and neck including the ears and the back of the neck. The same amount should be reapplied every two hours, more often if swimming or exercising. Sunscreen should be labelled SPF 30+, water-resistant and broad spectrum for very high protection. Broad spectrum means that the sunscreen filters out much of the ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. No sunscreen provides 100% protection and it should always be used in conjunction with other sun protection methods, such as wearing a hat and appropriate protective clothing, scheduling indoor activities during the peak UVR times and encouraging children to play in the shade where possible.
