Most sunscreen labels say to reapply sunscreen every two hours. But, in the real world, who does that? We would have to wash and reapply all day long. I suspect the “reapply every two hours” is based primarily on the issue that most people don’t apply sunscreen liberally enough and, therefore, don’t get the protection indicated on the label. So, the logic is reapplying sunscreen every two hours leads to a liberal application, resulting in better sun protection.⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Here’s the scoop: The SPF number on the label is a regulated, legal description that indicates how long you can stay in the sun without getting a sunburn. If you apply the sunscreen liberally enough and if it has a high enough SPF number (SPF 30 or greater), it will protect your skin for far longer than two hours on most days. This doesn’t apply if you are in the water or sweating all day.
So what is “liberal application?” Spread a relatively thick layer that you can see over the areas of skin that will be exposed to daylight, and massage into the skin. If you’re planning a long day outside, re-apply an SPF Powder such as Sun Kissed SPF or UV Clear Powder, which will not only soak up moisture and shine, but also adds further protection.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ Layering sun protection products and using physical blockers with zinc or titanium is even better. A moisturizer with SPF, followed by an SPF foundation and a zinc/titanium SPF powder is highly effective for long-standing UV protection.
Reminder… don’t let a high SPF fool you⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ SPF 50: screens 98 percent of UVB rays;⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ SPF 100 screens 99 percent ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀ You see, the advantage is minimal. All you need is the right product, a decent application with an SPF 30 or higher.