How much sunscreen should you apply this summer?

MANILA, Philippines - Before stepping out in the sun to enjoy the warmth and relaxation that summer brings, make sure that you are loaded with sun protection.

You can always prevent damaging rays from penetrating deep under your skin’s surface by using the perfect sunscreen.

So how much amount of that cult classic is enough to protect your skin?

According to Dr. Clarisse Mendoza, a dermatologist at Asian Hospital, in a normal summer day, SPF 30 is good enough but SPF 50 like the new Neutrogena Ultra-Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF50+ is recommended for extended time spent outdoors.

Dr. Mendoza said one of the most common mistakes that people are doing is not putting enough amount of sunscreen which is why they still end up having skin discoloration or sunburn even if they did apply sunscreen.

“Using too much amount of sunscreen with SPF 15 is different from using just the right amount of sunscreen with SPF 50,” she told Philstar.com on April 20 at the Manila Polo Club.

"The ideal is at least one ounce or one shot glass (of sunscreen). That's for the entire body. For example you are wearing a bikini, that should cover everything," she added.

Since sunscreen requires reapplication, another shot glass of the product is required each time you reapply. Dr. Mendoza said you may do this as often as three times a day specially when you are exposed in heavy sweating or if you are often in the beach.

On the other hand, Dr. Mendoza said the face and neck require lesser amount, with only half a teaspoon of sunscreen required.

If you’re using a spray type, you should apply until an even sheen appears on the skin. Remember that any skin in your body that will be exposed to sunlight should be covered with sunscreen, including the ears, the top of your feet and hands.