With temperatures this weekend set to top 30C in a number of regions, dermatologist, Dr Scott Walker has shared important advice about the use of sunscreen at the beach
As the UK basks in scorching temperatures with an ongoing heatwave expected to see mercury levels soar past 30C in several regions this weekend (June 21/22), a dermatologist’s timely advice on sunscreen application might be something beachgoers want to take seriously.
Doctor Scott Walker took to TikTok to deliver his skin protection tips as Britain braces itself for the heatwave With a practical demonstration using a glass, he illustrated just how much sunscreen is essential for a day at the beach: “This is how much sunscreen is needed to cover you body on a typical beach day – it’s an entire shot glass full, but let’s be honest – do you ever apply that much?”
Dr Walker then confessed that the reality is most people skimp on their sunscreen, meaning they don’t get the full benefits advertised on the bottle. “Not a lot of people do, which is why the SPF [sun protection factor] advertised on the bottle is not what we are really getting,” he remarked.
“Nobody applies enough, and in fact this was proven in a real life study at a ski resort where they gave skiers SPF50 or SPF100 and told them to use it how they normally would.”
The findings of the study revealed that it was more common for individuals using SPF50 to suffer from sunburn. Dr Walker shared the lessons learnt: “So, we have learned a couple of things here,” he reiterated.
“One – we need to be applying more sunscreen. And two – higher SPF numbers can be beneficial, especially on those days we’re going to be outside all day.”
Dr Walker closed with a further piece of advice, stating: “Sunscreen isn’t perfect! Remember the number one line of defence is physical sun protection – seeking shade and UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) clothing!”.
Writing in response, user shared: “Every one I know uses SPF20 maybe 30 if they don’t have anything else, but my Scandinavian friend only uses 50 or above regardless. I’d rather be ghostly pale and comfortable instead of red and uncomfortable.”
Another chimed in: “That is why I buy cheap. The supermarket brand, the one for atopic skin (normally unscented) and use the same for face and body.”
A third person offered their insight: “It’s one reason I get a stronger sunscreen than I need. If I don’t use enough I’ll get the strength I need (and if I can’t go stronger I’ll make sure to use enough).”
Whilst a fourth person revealed their sun protection strategy: “And we’re supposed to reapply that much every two hours if where gonna be out in the sun all day like the beach. Which almost nobody does, myself included – I forget, though I do bring shade and stay under it most of the time.”
According to the NHS, meanwhile, adults should aim to apply around six to eight teaspoons of sunscreen if you’re covering your entire body.
“If sunscreen is applied too thinly, the amount of protection it gives is reduced,” the NHS notes. “If you’re worried you might not be applying enough SPF30, you could use a sunscreen with a higher SPF.”
The advice continues: “If you plan to be out in the sun long enough to risk burning, sunscreen needs to be applied twice:
- 30 minutes before going out
- just before going out
Sunscreen should be applied to all exposed skin, including the face, neck and ears, and head if you have thinning or no hair, but a wide-brimmed hat is better.
“Sunscreen needs to be reapplied liberally and frequently, and according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This includes applying it straight after you have been in water, even if it’s “water resistant”, and after towel drying, sweating or when it may have rubbed off.
“It’s also recommended to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, as the sun can dry it off your skin.”