Got a few questions about buying, using, and removing sunscreen?
Check out these surf sunscreen FAQs.
When Was Sunscreen Invented?
Primitive forms of sunscreen may have been used up to several thousand years ago.
After all, the civilizations that gave us science, technology, medicine, and modernity were located in hot regions, including Egypt, Greece, Rome, and the Middle East.
However, it wasn’t until the 1920s that proper sunscreen hit the market.
The earliest form was invented by an Australian chemist named H. A Milton Blake.
He worked on the product over many years and perfected it before selling it to the public.
It’s still sold today under the name Hamilton Sun and Skin.
Despite being the first, Blake doesn’t always get the credit he deserves.
Depending on who you ask, that honor either goes to Eugene Schuller (the founder of L’Oréal) who invented sunscreen in 1936, or Franz Greiter, who followed with an invention in 1938.
When Should You Apply Sunscreen?
You should apply sunscreen half an hour before leaving the house.
That way, your skin has time to absorb it.
How Often Should You Re-apply Sunscreen?
Sunscreen should be re-applied every two hours to ensure complete protection.
Does Sunscreen Expire?
Sunscreen will lose its effectiveness after a while.
All bottles should include an expiry date and the FDA also requires them to be effective for at least three years.
If you buy a bottle today, it should be just as effective next summer, the summer after that, and maybe even the next one as well!
Just keep an eye on the expiry date and don’t use it beyond this date.
Does Sunscreen Prevent Tanning?
Yes, sunscreen will prevent tanning to a degree but it’s still possible to tan while wearing it.
More importantly, wearing it will prevent UV rays from harming your skin and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
How Much Sunscreen To Use On My Face?
Experts recommend using an ounce of sunscreen on your body and 0.4 ounces on your face.
An ounce should fill a shot glass while 0.4 ounces is roughly the size of a nickel.
Can You Put Sunscreen On A New Tattoo?
You need to wait for a tattoo to heal before you apply sunscreen.
Instead, simply cover your tattoo with loose clothing and make sure it’s not exposed to the sun.
Can You Bring Sunscreen On A Plane?
In early 2021 it was announced that the TSA was allowing large bottles of sunscreen in carry-on bags.
This announcement was quickly retracted, though, and the TSA claimed that it was a mistake before clarifying that the 3-1-1 rule applies.
The 3-1-1 rule states that liquids (including sunscreen) must be no more than 3.4 ounces (100 ml) and fit in a 1-quart resealable bag.
For anything larger, you will need to add it to your checked baggage.
How To Get Sunscreen Out Of Eyes?
If you get sunscreen in your eyes, simply flush them with clean running water.
A shower may be ideal for this, but only if the pressure isn’t too high and the water isn’t too hot.
Stay under the water for at least 10 minutes.
It’s normal for the eye to continue to feel a little irritated even after it has been cleaned, but if this irritation persists for a couple of days, book an appointment with your eye doctor.
Can Sunscreen Cause Acne?
Sunscreen can worsen acne and cause spots, but there are sunscreens out there that are specially formulated for acne-prone skin.
Do You Need Sunscreen Indoors Or When You Drive?
Most car windscreens are treated to protect against UVA and UVB rays but side windows, along with the windows in your home, typically only protect against UVB.
If you’re spending a lot of time behind the wheel or in the car on long summer days, you should apply sunscreen.
What Is Chemical Sunscreen?
Chemical sunscreen is absorbed by the skin and works by absorbing UV rays.
It converts these rays into heat and then releases them.
Some of the chemicals used include Octinoxate and Avobenzone.
What Is Physical Sunscreen?
Physical sunscreen contains minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide and works by sitting on top of the skin and reflecting the sun’s rays.
Physical sunscreen is also known simply as “sunblock”.
Does Spray Sunscreen Work?
Yes, and it will work just as well as lotion providing you use the right amount.
The issue with spray sunscreen is that consumers tend to underuse it, which means they don’t have the protection they need.
Does Sunscreen Go Before Or After Moisturizer?
You should moisturize first when using a physical sunscreen but if you’re using a chemical variety, apply the sunscreen first.
How To Put Sunscreen On Your Back?
The easiest way to apply lotion on your back is to ask a friend to do it.
If you’re alone, you can use lotion applicators or just grab a brush, wrap it in a washcloth, apply the sunscreen to the washcloth, and use that to reach over and scrub.
What Is The Difference Between Sunscreen And Sunblock?
The words “sunscreen” and “sunblock” are often used interchangeably by consumers and even by retailers.
However, they technically refer to two different types, with “sunscreen” referencing chemical solutions and “sunblock” referring to the physical ones.
Should You Wear Sunscreen In Winter?
The sun doesn’t disappear during the summer and so experts often recommend that you wear sunscreen all year round.
If you’re outdoors for long periods, it should be worn.
Expert views differ on this.
Some insist that you don’t need to wear sunscreen during the winter months if you live in a cold country, others argue that it should be worn all year long regardless.
Why Is My Sunscreen Piling?
“Piling” is when the sunscreen balls-up or flakes on the skin.
It means that it is not being properly absorbed by the skin and can be caused by a variety of issues, including problems with your skin (clogged pores) to the ingredients in the sunscreen.
Do You Need Sunscreen If You Have Dark Skin?
Everyone needs sunscreen regardless of skin color.
Although dark skin colors tan less and burn less frequently, they can still be harmed by the sun’s rays.
Can You Be Allergic To Sunscreen?
It is possible, but it’s very rare.
If you are allergic, it means you are allergic to an ingredient and not the product itself.
As a result, there may be other products you can use.
How To Remove Sunscreen From Car Interiors?
Did you coat yourself and your kids in sunscreen only for them to transfer it to your upholstery?
If so, it’s time to grab a cloth and some soapy water—it’s a simple but effective method.
Pay attention to the material’s care instructions and don’t use too much water.
