Skincare expert explains how often you should actually apply sunscreen to stay protected

Slathering on sunscreen might be one of the most annoying parts of a day at the beach, but it’s absolutely essential to protect yourself from the sun. However, new research has revealed a worrying lack of knowledge among Britons about how to protect themselves from the sun’s harmful rays.

A survey of 2,091 adults between June 25 and 26 by Boots Soltan and cancer charity Macmillan found that only 31 percent regularly use sunscreen. Shockingly, almost two-thirds of Britons are unaware that exposure to UVA rays can increase the risk of a mole becoming cancerous, the Express reports.

Clare O’Connor, Suncare Scientific Advisor at Boots, has shared her top tips on how to avoid the dangerous effects of too much sun. She advised: “Wearing sunscreen is essential to protect your skin from sun exposure, even on cloudy days.”

READ MORE: Experts reveal how often you should wash your bedding in the summer months to prevent nasty bacteria

Exposure to UVA rays can increase the chance of a mole becoming cancerous(Image: (Image: Getty))

She recommends people use a minimum of SPF30 for all skin tones, and SPF50 for those with sensitive skin, those traveling to warmer climates, and for children. She also pointed out that, “As part of our commitment to body safety, Soltan no longer produces sunscreens lower than SPF50 for children and SPF15 for adults.”

How much should you use?

The data also found that more than 70 percent of adults are unsure about how much sunscreen they should use to stay safe in the sun. Ms. O’Connor recommends using “about 2-3 tablespoons of product — about a shot glass full, or an ounce for spray sizes.”

She continues: “To ensure your head and neck are protected, use the ‘two-finger rule’: simply squeeze the product directly onto the first two fingers of your hand and rub it liberally into your face.”

How often do you need to reapply it?

With the UK set to see less rain for the rest of the week, experts are reminding sun worshippers of the importance of applying sunscreen correctly. Ms O’Connor suggested reapplying every two hours. She said: “Always remember to reapply regularly throughout the day. According to research carried out with Macmillan, 40 per cent of those who wear or apply sunscreen admit to only reapplying ‘sometimes’ on a typical summer day in the UK. Depending on the sunscreen, we should all be reapplying every two hours and immediately after swimming.”

How much should you use?

How often do you need to reapply it?

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