Does face sunscreen last all day?

Two hours is a reapplication rule, not an expiry time

Sunscreen does not provide unchanged protection from breakfast to bedtime. Sun exposure can break sunscreen down, and water, sweat, towel drying and rubbing can remove the layer on your skin. You should replace that layer regularly rather than wait until your face looks burned. Apply a fresh, generous layer after towel drying or whenever sunscreen has rubbed off, even if two hours have not passed.34

Does SPF 50 last longer than SPF 30?

A higher SPF means greater protection against sunburn, not permission to leave sunscreen on longer without reapplying. SPF measures protection against ultraviolet B rays, or UVB, and is not directly related to hours in the sun. Choose SPF 30 or higher with broad spectrum protection, which covers both UVA and UVB. Keep the same reapplication schedule with SPF 50.15

How to apply face sunscreen

Sunscreen comes as creams, lotions, sticks and gels, so protecting your face does not require allegiance to one particular tube. Follow the directions for the format you choose; never spray sunscreen directly onto your face.5

1. 1Apply sunscreen to dry skin at least 15 minutes before going outdoors, rather than waiting until you are already in the sun.
2. 2Use at least 1 teaspoon for your face. A thin application reduces protection; spread sunscreen evenly and thoroughly, avoiding your eyes and mouth.
3. 3Cover your neck, ears and exposed hairline too. Protect your lips with an SPF 30 lip balm and your eyelids with sunglasses.
4. 4Apply sunscreen underneath makeup. Take sunscreen with you so you can repeat the application during the day.

Makeup can contain sunscreen, but sun protection is its secondary job, which is a lot of responsibility for something also expected to match your outfit. Wearing makeup does not remove the need to reapply sunscreen outdoors.16

What if sunscreen is water resistant?

Water resistant does not mean waterproof. In the US, water resistant sunscreen labels specify either 40 or 80 minutes of protection during swimming or sweating. Read that limit before getting into the water, and reapply after swimming and towel drying. Do not wait for the usual two hour interval if water or sweat has disturbed your sunscreen.45

What about cloudy days, driving and windows?

Cloud cover and winter weather do not eliminate UV exposure. UVA rays can also pass through glass, so a car or airplane window is not complete sun protection. During travel, protect exposed skin with sunscreen, use protective clothing and seek shade, including lowering airplane window shades. A morning application is not a substitute for reapplication during a long journey with sun exposure.167

Use more than sunscreen for a long day outside

Use shade, a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses alongside sunscreen. No sunscreen blocks all UV radiation, and wearing sunscreen is not a reason to extend your time in direct sun. Keep the container out of excessive heat and direct sunlight so the product stays in good condition. Use an unexpired sunscreen; if a US sunscreen has no expiry date, replace it three years after purchase.3456

If you get sunburned, stay out of the sun until the redness has gone. Cool the skin with cool water or a cool bath or shower. Seek medical help if you feel unwell or your skin becomes badly swollen or blistered.4