Many people rely on the SPF in their daily moisturiser or foundation for sun protection, but an expert has warned this is not adequate. Bruce Green, a chartered chemist and founder of SOS Serum Skincare, told The Mirror that these products often contain too low a level of SPF to protect effectively, especially during summer.
Green explained that foundation typically contains only SPF 15, which is insufficient for proper protection. He stressed that a separate sun cream should always be applied at the end of your skincare routine, allowing a few minutes for it to penetrate before applying makeup. Reapplication throughout the day is also vital.
The expert recommends using a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays, with a minimum SPF of 30. He added that application and re-application are key: “No matter how good or effective your sun protection purchase is, it will only be as good as its application and re-application.”
Green also gave guidance on how much sunscreen to use. For the face, nose, ears, hands, arms and legs, adults should apply around two teaspoons. For the whole body in a swimsuit, use about two tablespoons. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or after swimming or sport.
He recommends a double application for sunbathing: apply the first layer 15–30 minutes before going out, then another layer when you reach the sun, describing it as “like getting a protective coat of armour.” Many people use too little sunscreen, he noted.
