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Daily Record
Daily Record
Health
Courtney Pochin & Ketsuda Phoutinane

Skincare expert shares exact sunscreen amount to apply with 'two teaspoon rule'

The heatwave is bypassing Scotland this week - but applying sun cream is crucial even when the sun isn't shining.

Sunlight is a welcome respite from the typical rainy and cloudy weather we Scots receive, but the rays come with a major risk factor.

The sun emits ultraviolet radiation in the form of UVA and UVB rays that can contribute to skin cancer.

UVA penetrates cloud cover and windows, so sunscreen is a good idea whether you're in cloudy Scotland or holidaying on a Spanish beach.

Chartered Chemist and founder of SOS Serum Skincare, Bruce Green, has shared his top tips with the Mirror - including how much sun cream you should be applying to your body and how often to reapply.

"Most individuals use too little sunscreen. If you must sunbathe, think about a double application of sun cream," said Bruce.

Sun cream should be applied before you hit the sun (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

"Apply the first layer 15-30 minutes before the beach and then apply another layer when you hit the sun. It's like getting a protective coat of armour.

"Use enough cream to cover thoroughly all exposed areas: face, nose and ears, hands, arms, and legs. Don’t forget the backs of yours and other necks."

He continued: "As a guide, adults should aim to apply around two teaspoons of sunscreen if you're covering your head, arms and neck, and two tablespoons if you are covering your entire body whilst wearing a swimsuit.

"Reapply sunscreen every two hours or so and after swimming or sport."

The expert added that not applying sun cream is the "main mistake" a person can make, as even when it's not particularly sunny "80 per cent of the harmful rays are still there".

How sunscreens work and what to buy

Bruce went on to explain how sun cream actually works and share his thoughts on the best types to buy.

"Sun creams work to reflect UVA and UVB rays away from the skin and act as physical blockers. This is achieved through ingredients such as inorganic minerals like Zinc Oxide, which are able to achieve this protective shield on the skin.

"It's a similar effect white paint reflects light. On the other side, organic (containing carbon) chemicals don't reflect the rays but absorb them before they can penetrate the skin," he said.

"A good sunscreen will give protection against both UVA and UVB rays (Broad-Spectrum). You should always use a face/body sun cream with a minimum of SPF 30. For ultimate protection, look for a mineral-based, SPF 50, Broad-Spectrum SPF.

"Remember, no matter how good or effective your sun protection purchase is, it will only be as good as its application and re-application."

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