Tips and Tricks for Better Sun Protection with SPF
Tips and Tricks for Better Sun Protection with SPF [Updated – May 2025]
When it comes to protecting our skin from the sun, SPF is a MUST!
Using SPF (sun protection factor) is perfect for keeping your skin safe from those harmful UV rays.
However, simply just slathering on sunscreen isn’t always enough to ensure maximum protection.
So, to help you get the most out of your SPF, here’s a list of tips and tricks to help you boost its efficiency.
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6 Tips for Better Sun Protection
Sunscreen is an essential tool in protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.
To get the best protection out of your sunscreen, it’s so important to use it correctly and consistently.
Choosing the right SPF
First and foremost, it’s crucial you choose the right SPF for your skin type and the amount of sun exposure you’ll be facing.
For everyday activities, an SPF of 30 is usually sufficient, while outdoor adventures might call for SPF 50 or higher.
Look for broad-spectrum sunscreens that will protect you against both UVA and UVB rays, ensuring you have comprehensive coverage.
Additionally, consider your skin type: those like myself with sensitive skin might benefit from mineral sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause irritation.
My favourite sensitive skin SPF is the Garnier Ambre Solaire SPF 50+ Sensitive Advanced Dry Mist Sun Cream Spray.
SPF Reccomendations for Better Sun Protection
- La Roche-Posay Anthelios Uvmune 400 Hydrating Tinted Cream SPF50 For Sensitive Skin
- NIVEA SUN Protect & Moisture Sun Spray SPF 50+
- Bondi Sands SPF 50+ Fragrance Free Sunscreen Lotion Value Pump Pack 500ml
- Garnier Ambre Solaire Hydra 24 Hour Protect Lotion, With Shea Butter
- Malibu Sun SPF 30 Lotion Spray
These are some of my top recommendations for SPF, but my favourite face one right now is the Garnier BHA+Niacinamide Daily UV Fluid with SPF50.
I genuinely can’t recommend it enough.
Apply the right amount
Application technique is another key factor in maximizing better sun protection with your SPF.
So many people don’t apply enough sunscreen, which can significantly reduce its effectiveness!
As a rule of thumb, make sure to cover your entire body with an even layer, and don’t forget the commonly missed spots like the ears, back of the neck, and tops of the feet.
Use it at the right time for better sun protection
It’s important to make sure you are applying your sunscreen at the right time.
Apply it at least 15 – 30 minutes before you get sun exposure to allow it to fully absorb into your skin.
This allows it to sink into the skin properly before you get that sun exposure and helps to better protect you.
And remember, don’t apply it directly in the sun and make sure that when you are reapplying it, you’re doing it in the shade if possible.
Reapply Regularly
Not many people know this or stick to it, but sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours at minimum.
If you’re swimming, sweating, or towel drying, then you should apply it a lot more often as you’ll won’t to have the full protection.
Also, water resistant SPFs are not waterproof, so even if you’re using one, make sure to reapply it after being in the water or after heavy sweating.
It’s better to reapply too soon than too late, as your skin can burn more quickly than you might expect!
Additional measures for better sun protection
As well as using sunscreen, its important to make sure you’re using other sun blocking measures to protect yourself.
By doing this you can enhance your sun defence strategy.
Protective Clothing
As well as using sunscreen on our skin, using protective clothing is an added bonus for sun protection.
Make sure to wear protective clothing when in the sun such as:
Seek the shade
When out in the sun, I recommend seeking the shade during peak sun hours.
This is typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are at their strongest.
It’s also important to remember that reflective surfaces like water, sand, and snow can really intensify sun exposure.
So, make sure to take extra precautions in these environments.
Final Thoughts
By following these simple tips and tricks, you can maximize your SPF efficiency and enjoy the great outdoors with confidence.
Remember, sun protection is not just about avoiding sunburn, it’s about safeguarding your skin’s health for the long term.
So, lather up, stay sun smart, and have fun in the sun!
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What a fantastic post Jordanne! Not many people know about applying before going in the sun or keep up with reapplying.
Definitely learned a good bit here, thank you for sharing.
Also, it’s nice to see you posting again 😁