1. What’s the biggest mistake most people are making with sunscreen? Why is it important to use sunscreen properly?
The biggest mistake is that people don’t apply sunscreen daily because they say that they are never outside. My explanation is even 5 minutes driving in the car or just sitting by the window is still sun exposure and applying sunscreen daily is important.
2. Why is mineral sunscreen better in general? Why is it better for those with hyperpigmentation and melasma?
With chemical sunscreens, I think it takes 15 mins to start working but mineral start blocking right away, correct? Mineral sunscreens are physical barriers to the sun and it’s like a shield that protects your skin immediately. A chemical sunscreen still allows UV rays to penetrate the skin but the chemicals cause a reaction to dissipate the rays from the skin. This reaction doesn’t happen right away so you have the risk of still getting some sun exposure. People with melasma or hyperpigmentation want the most effective sunblocks that will block the UV rays immediately.
3. What SPF should people opt for and why?
SPF 30 is the gold standard that protects the skin from around 97% of the UVB rays. Going higher than SPF 30 only gives small incremental protection. However, if you have a history of skin cancer that incremental increased protection may be important.
4. If you’re home but near windows, do you still need to wear sunscreen? Do you still need to reapply every 2 hours?
Absolutely, the window at home or in your car do not block the UV rays. You will still need to apply and reapply sunblock.
5. And lastly, any tips for makeup-wearers when it comes to reapplication? I know doctors sometimes suggest trying powder SPF for reapplication?
I love the powder SPF for reapplication especially if you already have makeup applied to your face.
