Heatwave: Use the double sunscreen technique for extra skin protection this summer

Every single day, your skincare morning ritual may start with cleansing, toning moisturizing and applying that one layer of non-negotiable sunscreen, especially in summer for that sun protection. All of this sounds cliched, isn’t it? But, here’s a catch! As the heatwave surges, it is important that you double apply your sunscreen for that added protection against the scorching heat. This might sound unfamiliar, but many skincare enthusiasts rave about the benefits of applying a double layer of sunscreen to keep skin health under check.

Health Shots got in touch with Dr Kashish Kalra, Head of the Department of Dermatology at Max Super speciality hospital, New Delhi, to understand everything about this new trend, double sunscreen.

How to apply a double layer of sunscreen this summer?

You must have heard of double cleansing to get rid of all the excess dirt, grime or makeup. Double sunscreen is a new concept but is surely beneficial for the skin in grave summers.

Recently, popular dermatologist Dr Rashmi Shetty took to her social media to share how to apply double sunscreen and why.

Dr Shetty says, “As the name suggests, applying double sunscreen means you are using two sunscreens at a time. So, you first use a sunscreen which has skincare ingredients also in it such as vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, etc. So, it gives you what you need, and on top of it, use a powdered sunscreen which could simply be your compact and that will give you the necessary sun care protection by locking in the sunscreen.”

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The thumb rule of using a sunscreen

During harsh summer and the predicted heatwave, applying double sunscreen can be beneficial. Since everyone is aware of the concept of SPF, UVA, and UVB rays, protection from which is a by-product of using sunscreen daily. However, most people don’t know how much quantity of sunscreen is ideal for usage daily.

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Dr Kalra shares, “If you go by the books, the dosage reckoned is 2mg per centimetre square. That comes out to become half a teaspoon full for your face and your neck. Alongside, there is a two-finger formula that says that you can apply two full fingers of sunscreen should be used for the face and neck.”

3 major benefits of applying a double layer of sunscreen

As per Dr Kalra, there are 3 major benefits of using double sunscreen as follows:

1. You won’t skip areas

The expert goes on to describe how using a double sunscreen leaves no room for skipping any area of the face or neck. The second layer ensures that you lock the amount of sunscreen on your skin, and gives double protection against the sun outside.

2. Double sunscreen can give a makeup finish as well

There are two types of sunscreens, chemical sunscreen, and physical sunscreen. Most sunscreens have chemical and physical photo-protectors. Ideally, you should use the chemical sunscreen first that has some actives and on top of that, you can use a physical sunscreen or a powdered sunscreen or a bb-based sunscreen to get a tinge of makeup as well.

Also read: How to layer sunscreen with makeup?

3. Sunscreen lasts only 80 minutes on your face

“The life of any sunscreen, even the best of water-resistant sunscreens, is only 80 minutes on your face. After 80 minutes, a sunscreen demands application. Applying a double layer might make your sunscreen last a bit longer, “says the expert.