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Step 1: Start with a Clean, Well-Moisturized Face (5 minutes before application)
Why It Matters:
· Dry skin makes sunscreen difficult to blend evenly, intensifying white cast.
· Moisturizer creates a smooth, hydrated base that allows sunscreen to spread and absorb uniformly.
How to Do It:
· Cleanse your face with your preferred face wash (ideally your Aloera face wash SKU).
· Apply a lightweight hydrating moisturizer (e.g., with hyaluronic acid, aloe vera, ceramides) to face and neck.
· Allow 2–3 minutes for full absorption before proceeding to sunscreen.
Pro Tip: If you have very dry or sensitive skin, apply a hydrating serum (0.5–1% HA serum) first, then a light moisturizer cream, then sunscreen. This layered hydration approach creates the ideal foundation for seamless sunscreen application.
Step 2: Use the Correct Amount (2-Finger Rule)
This is CRITICAL—most people use 50% of the recommended dose, reducing SPF 50 to SPF 7 protection.
The 2-Finger Rule:
· Squeeze a line of sunscreen the length of your index and middle fingers (from base to tip).
· Approximate amount: ½ teaspoon (1.25–2 ml).
· This amount covers: face, neck, ears, hairline, and under the jaw.
Why This Amount Matters:
· SPF values (SPF 30, SPF 50) are laboratory-tested using 2 mg/cm² of skin—a generous amount.
· Applying half this amount reduces SPF 50 to approximately SPF 7 (significant reduction).
· Using the correct amount ensures you achieve the full SPF protection promised on the label.
Measurement Options:
1. Visual (2-Finger Method): Squeeze along index and middle fingers.
2. Teaspoon Method: ½ teaspoon for face + neck.
3. Shot Glass Method: One shot glass (30 ml) for entire adult body.
4. Palm Method: Enough to cover a ₹5 coin or nickel-sized amount.
Pro Tip: If 2 fingers feels like too much (common concern), apply 1 finger length first, let it absorb for 1–2 minutes, then apply the second finger length. This layered application feels lighter while still delivering full protection.
Step 3: Dot, Don't Slab—Strategic Placement
Why Dotting Prevents White Cast:
· Dabbing sunscreen in small dots across key areas ensures even distribution.
· Prevents clumping and uneven absorption that creates visible white streaks.
How to Do It:
· Place dots of sunscreen on: forehead, both cheeks, nose, chin, neck (back and front), ears.
· Do NOT apply in one continuous line or slab across the entire face—this causes pooling and uneven blending.
Application Order:
1. Forehead
2. Right cheek
3. Left cheek
4. Nose
5. Chin
6. Neck (apply downward strokes)
7. Behind the ears and jawline
Step 4: Pat, Don't Rub—Absorption Technique
This is Counter-Intuitive But Critical:
Many guides recommend rubbing sunscreen in thoroughly. However, for mineral sunscreens with white cast concerns, patting is often more effective.
Step 5: Allow 15–20 Minutes for Absorption Before Sun Exposure
Why This Matters:
· Sunscreen needs time to fully absorb into the skin and form a protective barrier.
· Unabsorbed product sitting on the surface appears chalky and white.
· The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends 15 minutes minimum before sun exposure.
· For complete peace of mind, 20 minutes is optimal.
What to Do During This Time:
· Allow sunscreen to absorb while getting dressed, having breakfast, packing, etc.
· Do NOT immediately apply makeup or other products over wet sunscreen.
· Give mineral sunscreens extra time (20 minutes) since they sit on the surface slightly more than chemical sunscreens.
Step 6: Apply in Layers if Using 2 Fingers Feels Heavy (Optional)
For consumers uncomfortable with the generous application:
· Apply 1 finger length of sunscreen, let it set for 1–2 minutes.
· Apply a second finger length on top.
· This double-layer approach achieves full protection without feeling occlusive.
