When it comes to sunscreen, how much you use is just as important as when and what you apply. A swipe here and a dot there just won’t cut it. “Most people only apply a percentage of the amount necessary, making an SPF 30 closer to an SPF 15,” says New York dermatologist Dr. David Bank.
One ounce of sunscreen—the equivalent of a full shot glass—slathered from head to toe is what you should aim for.
So we tested the full one-ounce dose and calculated just how much needs to be applied (to each body part) to protect skin and beat the burn. Full disclosure: It was quite greasy. Allot considerable rubbing-in time.
Face
A penny-sized dollop of broad-spectrum sunscreen is what is needed to shield your face from damage. Don’t forget the hairline, hair part, the tops of your ears and even your eyelids—some of the most delicate and oft-forgotten areas, according to Bank.
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Back and Shoulders
Measure out a squeeze of sunscreen roughly equivalent to the size of three mini marshmallows to completely cover this burn-prone area.
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If this seems like a lot of sunscreen for your body, it probably is. But it’s crucial not to skimp to get the protection promised on the sunscreen bottle. Make sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming or sweating.
If a classic eight-ounce tube of sunscreen retails for about $10, it’s costing you $1.25 and about four minutes of your time on each of the eight applications—not a lot for two hours of protection and a lifetime of healthy skin.
MORE: Get Sunscreen Savvy!
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