Cult Beauty has partnered with Dr Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Pharmacy to address growing concerns about sun protection, following a controversial Instagram admission by reality star Sam Faiers. The former TOWIE star faced significant backlash after revealing she does not apply sunscreen to her children, prompting alarm among parents and health professionals. With the UK summer holidays in full swing, and 60% of UK adults unaware of correct sunscreen application amounts, the timing of Faiers’ comments has amplified calls for better sun safety education.
Dr Lee’s guidance clarifies how much sunscreen is needed and why skipping it, particularly for children, is dangerous. Sunburn not only causes immediate discomfort but also increases the risk of serious conditions like melanoma. Getting sunburnt once every two years triples the risk of being diagnosed with this form of skin cancer, compared to those who avoid burns. Children’s thinner, more sensitive skin makes them particularly vulnerable, underscoring the need for proper protection.
Correct sunscreen amounts for effective protection
For adequate coverage, Dr Lee recommends applying approximately two teaspoons of sunscreen per body area:
- Face and neck – 2 teaspoons
- Arms – two teaspoons, 1 teaspoon per arm
- Legs – two teaspoons, 1 teaspoon per leg
- Chest and stomach – 2 teaspoons
- Back and shoulders – two teaspoons
- A light layer is insufficient, especially for children, whose delicate skin requires thorough protection to prevent UV damage.
How to apply sunscreen correctly
Proper application is critical for effective sun protection. Dr Lee advises:
- Shake the sunscreen bottle to prevent clumping.
- Use the three-finger rule for the face, gently tapping the formula across the face, ears, and neck to avoid irritation and ensure even coverage.
- For the body, apply small, evenly spaced dots on exposed areas, massaging until fully absorbed, paying attention to often-missed spots like the neck, hands, and feet.
- Allow sunscreen to soak in for at least 15 minutes before sun exposure.
Dr Deborah Lee’s top tips for staying safe in the sun
Dr Lee shares essential advice for enjoying summer safely:
- Respect the sun: Limit direct sunlight exposure to 15–30 minutes daily, depending on skin tone, to produce vitamin D. Beyond this, risks of sunburn, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke increase. Stay in the shade or indoors between 11am and 3pm.
- Use sunscreen wisely: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and a 4- or 5-star UVA rating. For fair skin or those prone to burning, opt for SPF 50. Water-resistant formulas are ideal for swimming. Avoid tanning oils, which heighten UV damage.
- Keep cool: Wear loose, light-coloured clothing, cover arms and legs, and use a wide-brimmed hat. Stay hydrated, use cold compresses, and take cool showers. Seek air-conditioned spaces during peak heat.
- Drink more water: Aim for at least three litres daily to prevent dehydration, marked by thirst, dry mouth, or headaches. Avoid sugary or fizzy drinks, which can worsen dehydration, and be cautious with plastic bottles in heat.
- Protect your eyes: Wear a wide-brimmed hat or UV-filter sunglasses with a CE mark to shield eyes from 50% of UV rays.
The controversy surrounding Faiers’ remarks highlights a broader issue: many underestimate the dangers of sun exposure. The UK Health Security Agency notes that hot weather can exacerbate health risks, particularly for children and those with pre-existing conditions. With temperatures occasionally reaching record highs, such as 40.3°C in July 2022, proper sun protection is non-negotiable. By following Dr Lee’s expert advice, families can enjoy the summer safely while minimising risks of sunburn, dehydration, and long-term health consequences.
