Quantity, reapplication, and the phrases that keep coming up about sunscreen, put to the test.
Muraqqum article. The products mentioned are for sale in our store.
In 30 seconds
- Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher (American Academy of Dermatology recommendation).
- For the face, the recommended amount is about one teaspoon; reapply every two hours in the sun and after swimming or sweating.
- Sunscreen is the most important step in a skincare routine for anyone looking to care for their skin in the long term, and it requires the least: one product, every morning.
Who it's for
It's for you if you use very little sunscreen, only apply it at the beach, or never know how much to use.
It might not be for you if you have a diagnosed skin condition, have taken medication that increases sun sensitivity, or have a history of sun-related skin problems: speak with your doctor or dermatologist first. Written for adults.
What each thing on the label means
- Broad-spectrum. Indicates protection against the two types of ultraviolet radiation that reach the skin, UVA and UVB.
- Sun protection factor (SPF). Refers mainly to protection against UVB. Higher does not mean "total protection": no sunscreen blocks all radiation. [to be located: Recommendation 2006/647/EC]
- Water-resistant. Maintains protection for the time indicated on the label when swimming or sweating, but it is not "waterproof".
- Filters. They can be mineral or chemical in origin; both are used. Read the label and, if you have reactive skin, test it on a small area.
Step by step: apply it properly
- Apply before going out. The AAD recommends about 15 minutes before sun exposure.
- Measure the amount. For the face, the reference is about one teaspoon (approximately the length of your index and middle fingers, as the AAD illustrates). For the body, an adult needs, on average, an amount equivalent to a shot glass.
- Spread it over the entire face. Include the neck, ears, upper eyelids carefully, and the scalp if your hair is fine.
- Reapply. Every two hours in the sun, and immediately after swimming or sweating heavily.
- Lips. Use a balm with SPF 30 or higher.
Our rule of thumb: if the bottle lasts much longer than two or three months with daily use, you are probably using too little.
The myths, one by one
"I only need sunscreen at the beach"
Verdict: false.
Sun exposure happens every day: on the way to work, at an outdoor café, while driving. If you want to protect your skin in the long term, daily habit is the starting point. [to be located: institutional source (AAD or WHO)]
"It's not necessary on a cloudy day"
Verdict: false as a rule.
Some ultraviolet radiation passes through the clouds. The day may be cool and cloudy, and exposure can still occur. [to be located: institutional source, IPMA or WHO (UV index)]
In practice: check the ultraviolet index for the day (IPMA publishes it) and decide.
"Makeup with an SPF is enough"
Verdict: it depends, and often it isn't.
To achieve the indicated SPF, you would need to apply much more product than people usually use in makeup. It can be a complement; for those who want serious protection, sunscreen itself is the starting point. [to be located: source]
"People with dark skin don't need it"
Verdict: false.
All skin tones can suffer the effects of the sun. Skin with more melanin has some natural protection, but it is not total protection. [to be located: institutional source (AAD)]
"Applying it once in the morning lasts all day"
Verdict: false.
Protection decreases with sweat, contact, water, and time. The recommendation is to reapply every two hours in the sun.
"The higher the SPF, the less I reapply"
Verdict: false.
Even with high SPFs, reapplication is still necessary. A high SPF does not replace application habits. The AAD recommends SPF 30 or higher and reapplication every two hours.
"With retinol, I have to completely avoid the sun"
Verdict: an exaggeration.
A product with retinol increases sun sensitivity, so daily sunscreen is even more important. There is no need to avoid going out, but it is advisable to be careful and use strict sun protection. See the guide "How to start retinol" in the Footer Notes.
Quantity: a quick table
| Area | Reference amount | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Face | about 1 teaspoon | You can divide it into two thin layers |
| Neck and décolletage | about half a teaspoon | [own value, not from a source; adjust] |
| Whole body (adult) | about 30 ml (a shot glass) | Source: AAD |
| Lips | balm with SPF 30 or higher | Reapply frequently |
Warning
This information is general and does not replace the opinion of a doctor or pharmacist. If you have reactive skin, are pregnant or breastfeeding, take medication, or symptoms persist, speak with a healthcare professional before changing your routine. Moles that change shape, color, or size should be examined by a doctor.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most suitable SPF for everyday use?
The AAD recommends SPF 30 or higher, broad-spectrum and water-resistant. On days with a lot of exposure, reapplication counts more than a higher number.
Can I use sunscreen over moisturizer?
Many routines use moisturizer first and sunscreen as the last step in the morning. Follow the instructions on the label.
Sunscreen "doesn't sit well" under makeup. What should I do?
Try different textures (fluids, gels, milks) and give it a minute to settle before applying makeup.
Does sunscreen cause acne?
Some people notice this with certain textures. If it happened, choose a lighter texture and speak with a professional if it persists.
Do I need sunscreen indoors?
It depends on exposure to light passing through windows and the time spent near them. [to be located: institutional source]. On normal days, the most useful rule is actual exposure: if you are going to be outdoors, protect yourself.
What to take
To start the habit, the solar collection brings together sunscreens of various textures. Choose the texture you will actually use every morning.
Sources
- American Academy of Dermatology Association, "How to apply sunscreen". https://www.aad.org/public/everyday-care/sun-protection/shade-clothing-sunscreen/how-to-apply-sunscreen (accessed on 5/Oct/2026).
- Commission Recommendation 2006/647/EC (efficacy of sunscreens and claims). [to be located: open text]
- IPMA, ultraviolet index. https://www.ipma.pt (accessed on [date]; confirm the exact page).
- Institutional source on ultraviolet radiation and clouds (WHO or AAD). [to be located]
- Institutional source on sun protection for all skin tones (AAD). [to be located]
Related
- How to start retinol: a six-week calendar (in the Footer Notes)
- "Anti-aging": what a label can and cannot promise (in the Footer Notes)
