SPF Tips: Your Guide to Better Sun Protection

Let’s be real, sunscreen is the ultimate skincare MVP. It protects you from sunburn, wrinkles, dark spots, and, oh yeah, skin cancer (kind of a big deal). But are you actually using it right? If you're guilty of "Oops, I forgot my SPF today" or "A little bit is enough, right?"—don’t worry, we’re fixing that right now. Here’s your crash course on how to SPF like a pro.

1. Choose the Right SPF

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends using a broad-spectrum SPF of at least 30 to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. However, if you spend a lot of time outdoors, opt for SPF 50 or higher for extra coverage.  

Quick Tips: 

• SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50+ blocks about 98%. 
• Higher SPF doesn’t mean you can stay out in the sun longer—it still needs reapplication!  

 

 2. Apply the Right Amount

One of the biggest mistakes people make is not using enough sunscreen. The rule of thumb is:  for the face and neck about a coin-sized amount (or 1/2 teaspoon) or take two fingers, draw that sunscreen line on each finger. And for the body, use two full tablespoons (about a shot glass) for full coverage. 

Quick Tips: If you’re using Dew It’s Face Sun Mist or Sunscreen Mist, make sure to spray generously and rub it in for even coverage.  

 3. Reapply Often

SPF doesn’t last all day! You should reapply every two hours—or more frequently if you’re swimming or sweating. Even water-resistant sunscreens lose their effectiveness after about 40 to 80 minutes in water.  

Quick Tips:  

• Set a reminder on your phone to reapply if you’re spending the day outdoors.
• Carry Dew It’s Face Sun Mist for easy reapplication over makeup.  

4. Don’t Forget These Spots

People often miss key areas when applying sunscreen. Don’t forget your ears, eyelids, hands and feet, and your lips. We’ve got you covered with our sprays, sticks, and even our SPF Lip Peptide in colors too! 

5. Layering SPF with Makeup

If you wear makeup, don’t rely on SPF in foundation alone—it’s usually not enough. Instead:  

• Apply a dedicated sunscreen first.  

• Let it absorb for 5-10 minutes before applying makeup.  

• Use Dew It’s Face Sun Mist or Sun Stick to touch up throughout the day.  

6. Check Expiration Dates  

Expired sunscreen won’t protect you effectively. Most sunscreens last about 3 years, but if it smells off or has changed in texture, it’s time to toss it.  

Dew It’s Final Note

SPF is Your Best Anti-Aging Product!  Sunscreen not only protects against skin cancer but also prevents premature aging like wrinkles, dark spots, and loss of elasticity. Make SPF a daily habit, even on cloudy days or if you are stuck indoors in front of your screens all day, and your skin will thank you later!  

Recommended For You:

Face Sun Mist 

Sunscreen Mist 

Sun Stick

Sources: 

American Academy of dermatology Association. “Sunscreen FAQs.” Www.aad.org, 19 Oct. 2023, www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

Cleveland Clinic. “Should You Put Sunscreen on before Makeup?” Cleveland Clinic, health.clevelandclinic.org/is-the-sunscreen-in-your-makeup-enough. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

Healthline. “How Much Sunscreen Should You Use on Your Face? Yes, There’s a Right Amount.” Healthline, 9 Aug. 2021, www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/how-much-sunscreen-to-use-on-face#how-to-apply. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

Skin Cancer Foundation. “Sunscreen - the Skin Cancer Foundation.” The Skin Cancer Foundation, The Skin Cancer Foundation, July 2022, www.skincancer.org/skin-cancer-prevention/sun-protection/sunscreen/. Accessed 3 Mar. 2025.

Published on 14 March 2025.