I started wearing sunscreen on my face every day (which I wish I had started doing way sooner) to help prevent damage and wrinkles. Do I have to reapply every day for it to work while I’m out and about? Or does applying it today mean it’ll still work tomorrow as long as I’m only in the sun a few minutes at a time? And why?
I understand it’s like a barrier that UV rays can eventually break through, but how long does the barrier stick around?
Comments
Do you wash your face? Do you sweat? The barrier doesn’t just break down it gets removed. The ingredients will also break down in air regardless of whether there is UV. Can’t say for sure how long it lasts, but once a day if you’re going outside is probably a good minimum. Common sources recommend as often as once every 2 hours if you’re outdoors. It will depend on the strength of the sun, your complexion, and whether it will be removed through other factors.
Yes, you will need to reapply for continued protection. Most sunscreens will provide instructions on how frequently to reapply. Even when you are not in the sun the sunscreen the layer of sunscreen can dissipate through things like sweat and face washing. For the best protection you should apply just before going out and reapply as needed while you are out.