Make the application of sunscreens a part of your daily skin care routine in the following way:

Cleanse the skin.

Apply sunscreens (minimum 15 SPF) to the areas of the body which will be exposed to the sun.

Apply a moisturizer if necessary, but note that some moisturizers have sunscreens in them , if a sunscreen has a lotion or cream base, it acts as a moisturizer.

Apply makeup.

Reapply as needed throughout the day depending on the amount of sun exposure and your rate of perspiration.

Sunscreens are most effective when they are applied to cool, dry skin so they should be put on 20 to 30 minutes before sun exposure. The reason for this is two fold. First, the sunscreen needs a cool, dry surface to bind to the top layer of the skin. Second, you are more likely to get a heat or sweat rash from the sunscreen if applied when the skin is hot because the sweatpores are open.

The key to the effective use of sunscreens is to be diligent about their application. Apply them regularly and in adequate amounts. Thinly applied sunscreens markedly decrease the sun protection factor. Generally one ounce of sunscreen will be enough for one full body application. If you are in the sun regularly and apply sunscreens properly, you should purchase a new bottle as often as you purchase toothpaste.

It takes practice and discipline. Not only should you be diligent about applying sunscreen to your own skin, you should be putting sunscreen on your children regularly as well. Make it a practice each morning to apply sunscreens to the exposed areas of their bodies before they dress.