The thicker, the better: everything about sunscreen and rubbing in a row

If you’re going to be outside this weekend, it’s a good idea to apply sunscreen. The sun is out and about and temperatures above 25 degrees are expected. So throw that cream in your bag when you go on the hort.

But what about that smear? How often is it needed? And how long does sunscreen actually last? We looked it up for you.

Sunscreen: the ins and outs

Frequency

It is sometimes said that rubbing in once a day is sufficient, but that is not true. It depends on several factors, such as your skin type and the sun strength at that time. Water and sweat also have an impact on the effect of sunscreen. In any case, it is wise to reapply after every swim. Even if it says ‘waterproof’ on your bottle, KWF Kankerbestrijding emphasizes on their website. There is really no such thing as rubbing too often: better safe than sorry†

nice and thick

Many people think that spraying once or applying a thin layer is sufficient, but nothing could be further from the truth. The thicker, the better, is the motto. How much exactly is that? KWF Kankerbestrijding does have a guideline for this, namely seven teaspoons per lubrication. One for face and neck, two for arms and shoulders, two for chest, stomach and back and two for legs and feet. Oh, and don’t forget your lips, ears, and the tops of your hands, too.

Shelf life sunscreen

Very handy, of course, if you still have a tube of sunscreen in your bathroom cabinet. But beware: has the tube been opened before? Then it can be kept for a maximum of twelve months. Due to external influences, such as high temperatures, the protection factor ‘decreases’, as it were. So always keep your bottle or tube in a dry, cool place and for a maximum of one year.

always lubricate

Is it warm, but cloudy? Even then, lubrication is necessary, because there is still UV radiation. To a lesser extent, yes, but your skin can still burn if you are outside unprotected for too long.

Factor

Then you are standing in front of the sunscreen shelf, and you can choose from many different factors. Which one will it be then? That depends on your skin type (here you can see what your skin type is), and the degree of UV radiation, but in general, a minimum factor of 30 is needed on summer days. Children’s skin is extra sensitive and you should therefore always apply a factor of 50.

A mural against cancer and for life: ‘One thing on my wish list: life’