With the arrival of summer, hot days lure us to enjoy the outdoors. As always, myths about sun cream are making the rounds. However, dermatologist Christoph Liebich from Munich clarifies that there’s still a limit to how much sun you can take, no matter how much you reapply.
Essentially, once your skin has absorbed enough radiation, the time in which you are protected is over. And yet, to make that time as long as possible, you do need to reapply sun cream at regular intervals. Above all, it’s important to apply an adequate amount of sunscreen from the start.
Radiation protection experts say the recommended amount is two milligrams per square centimetre of skin, equating to about four heaped tablespoons for an adult’s entire body. The SPF should be clearly stated on the packaging. “Without this information, consumers cannot assess the level of protection,” she says.
Experts recommend choosing day creams with a high SPF. It is also crucial to use a sufficient amount of day cream, just as you would with sun cream. Dermatologist Liebich cautions that some people might not apply enough expensive creams to their faces, considering them luxury products.
“If you do not apply the recommended amount, even a high SPF won’t offer adequate protection,” explains Liebich. If you’re hesitant to use enough of the day cream, it’s better to opt for a classic sun cream. UVA radiation penetrates the dermis, UVB rays affect only the epidermis, and UVC rays are blocked by the o.