But for most of us, avoiding the sun is not possible, nor desirable. Therefore, sunscreens, as well as hats and clothing, are relied on for protection. Sunscreen Application . Sunscreens work by chemically reacting with the skin to absorb and reflect UVR before it can cause any skin damage. Functionally, sunscreens act like the melanin in our skin.
Melanin is our natural pigment that determines skin color and provides some sun protection.
However, to get this protection, the sunscreen must be used correctly. And typically it's not. This skimping in effect decreases an SPF 15, for instance, to an SPF of 8. Moreover, women using sunscreen as a makeup base tend to apply even less. To insure full SPF protection, you need to apply a teaspoon to your neck and face.