A skin expert is urging people to avoid a common ’30-minute rule’ sunscreen mistake that could leave skin vulnerable to sun damage and premature ageing
Everyone will be outdoors this week as they bask in the roasting temperatures, but if you don’t properly protect yourself, you can risk causing some serious sun damage – stock photo
A skincare specialist is drawing attention to a widespread ’30-minute rule’ sunscreen mistake that many people are guilty of, which can lead to premature ageing and heighten the risk of sun damage.
With the country enjoying scorching temperatures this week, many of us will be heading outdoors more frequently.
Experts are urging people not only to remember to slap on sun protection, but to ensure they’re applying it correctly too.
Donna-Marie Beard, advanced facialist at leading beauty and wellness clinic AL Aesthetics, explained: “Sunscreen plays a key role in protecting our skin against the sun’s harmful UV rays, which can contribute to skin damage and premature ageing.
Sunscreen needs to be applied twice: 30 minutes before going out and just before going out
“As we spend more time outdoors enjoying warming temperatures, it’s important to know the essentials when it comes to using sun protection correctly. A broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher helps block both UVA and UVB rays is good for everyday use.
“A mistake many people make is failing to apply it between 15 and 30 minutes before sun exposure, which is vital to allow it time to absorb and work effectively. Make sure you cover all areas of the skin that are likely to be exposed, and don’t forget commonly neglected areas such as the ears, hairline, eyelids and the back of the neck.”
“A good method to use is dabbing rather than rubbing the cream into the skin as this can help avoid irritation and ensure a more even application. If you are spending a prolonged period of time outdoors, it’s important to reapply your sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if sweating or swimming is likely to have washed it away.”
Extended exposure to the sun’s damaging UV rays can wreak havoc on the skin, leading to everything from sunburn and redness to parched, peeling skin and premature wrinkles, reports RSVP Live.
Not all sunscreens offer the same protection
Sunscreen serves as a crucial defence against such damage, though it comes with varying sun protection factor (SPF) ratings.
These typically range from 2 to 50+, with higher figures offering greater protection.
Experts stress the importance of checking expiry dates on creams, oils and lotions, as sunscreen typically expires within three years of being manufactured or within a year of being opened.
It’s equally vital to take additional precautions to shield yourself from harm, such as staying out of the sun during its peak intensity between 11am and 3pm and ensuring you drink plenty of water.
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