SUNSCREEN FAQ

Q: How much sunscreen should you use?

About one ounce (two tablespoons) for the body, plus a half teaspoon for face and neck.

Q: How often should you reapply sunscreen?

Every 2 hours, and after 80 minutes of swimming, sweating, or toweling off.

Q: When should you apply sunscreen?

Apply chemical sunscreens 30 minutes before sun exposure. Mineral sunscreens work immediately.

Q: What is the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?

Chemical filters absorb UV rays. Mineral, also called physical, filters reflect UV rays.

Q: What does broad spectrum mean?

Protection from both UVA and UVB rays. UVB burns. UVA drives skin aging and penetrates clouds and glass.

Q: What do SPF numbers indicate?

How much longer skin takes to burn compared with no sunscreen. SPF 30 is about 30 times, SPF 50 about 50 times.

Q: Where can I see the UV Index forecast?

Most weather apps include an hourly UV Index, including on cloudy days.

Q: Does sunscreen help hydration levels?

Sunscreen can limit transepidermal water loss, which helps maintain skin hydration.

Sunscreen is an easy and effective way to protect your skin, but it is not always as simple as just applying it. Below are the most common SPF questions and clear answers.

Sunscreen Frequently Asked Questions

How much sunscreen should you use?

Experts recommend about one ounce (two tablespoons) for the entire body, roughly a shot-glass or golf-ball amount, plus about a half teaspoon for the face and neck.

How often should you reapply sunscreen?

Reapply every 2 hours, and after 80 minutes of swimming, sweating, or toweling off. Indoors away from windows may not require reapplication.

When should you apply sunscreen?

Chemical sunscreens should be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure. Mineral (physical) sunscreens work immediately.

What is the difference between mineral and chemical sunscreen?

Chemical sunscreens absorb UV rays before they reach the skin. Mineral, also called physical, sunscreens create a barrier that reflects UV.

Compare chemical vs mineral sunscreens

What does broad spectrum mean?

Broad spectrum protection covers both UVA and UVB. UVB burns. UVA drives skin aging and penetrates clouds and glass.

What do SPF numbers indicate?

SPF is the sun protection factor. Correctly applied, SPF 30 delays burning about 30 times versus no sunscreen. SPF 50 about 50 times.

Is a higher SPF better?

SPFs above 50 offer only marginally more UVB protection and no extra UVA coverage. For most people, SPF 30 to 50 is the sweet spot.

Is sunscreen needed only when hot and sunny?

You can burn on cloudy days if the UV Index is 3 or higher. Daily use between 10am and 4pm is recommended most of the year.

Where can I see the UV Index forecast?

Most weather apps include an hourly UV Index, even on cloudy days.

Does sunscreen help hydration levels?

Yes. Sunscreen can limit transepidermal water loss, which helps skin maintain hydration.

Are spray sunscreens safe?

Yes when used properly. Spray until skin glistens and rub in. Avoid inhalation by spraying into hands and applying manually.

Will using sunscreen limit my vitamin D?

Daily sunscreen use has not been shown to cause vitamin D deficiency. You still get some UV exposure. Diet or supplements can help if needed.

What is hybrid sunscreen?

Hybrid formulas combine chemical filters that absorb UV with mineral filters that reflect it. Helpful for minimizing white cast while staying gentle.

Will sunscreen stain my shirt?

If you are in a white or light shirt, choose a zinc oxide sunscreen like our Mineral Performance Sunscreen Spray SPF 30. In dark shirts, use a non-mineral option like our Sunscreen Spray SPF 50.