One way that celebs keep their skin looking ageless is slicking on a sunscreen every time they leave the house. (Check out Maria Menounos practicing safe sun in Encino, Calif. on Aug. 5.) To break down how much you should be using every time you slather on your SPF, check out the guide below from Banana Boat and Hawaiian Tropic's resident dermatologist, Dr. Josh Zeichner.
How much? "One ounce of sunscreen — a dollop the size of a golf ball — is enough sunscreen for the whole body," Zeichner, who is also the director of cosmetic and clinical research in the dermatology department at Mount Sanai Hospital in NYC and spokesperson for the Skin Cancer Foundation, tells Us Weekly. "For the face, just a dime-sized amount."
If you're stepping out and covered up everywhere but your arms: "use a quarter size for each arm, plus another quarter size for your chest and back."
What kind? Physical sunblock is made with zinc and/or titanium, which physically reflect UV light away from the skin. They're great for those with product sensitivities. Chemical sunscreen include molecules like avobenzone, which absorb the light while preventing it from being absorbed into the skin. "But they're not stable for long periods of time in the sun," Zeichner warns.
How often? Reapply every two hours, of more often if you're engaging in sports or any activity that involved sweating.
What else? Zeichner says that slathering on SPF is only one piece of the puzzle. "A full regimen of sun protection includes wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and protective clothing — in addition to your SPF."
Who needs it? It's no secret that the sun's rays are non-discriminating. But as it turns out, men especially are guilty of not lathering up. "According to a recent study conducted by the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in two men have not used any sun care in the last 12 months," Zeichner says. "Men need to see the dermatologist to get checked — especially on their chest and back — just like women."
Us recommends: Banana Boat Sunscreen Natural Reflect Lotion ($11.49, drugstore.com) and L'Oreal Sublime Sun Advanced Sunscreen Crystal Clear Mist ($9.99, walgreens.com)
