One application of sun cream isn't sufficient: doctor

A thin application of sunscreen cream doesn't provide the full protection. Instead of the expected factor 30 ultraviolet protection, the consumer gets only factor 10.

The reason, according to Abeck, is that for the purpose of determining the factor that is listed on the package, 2 milligrams of sunscreen cream per square centimeter of skin is used in the laboratory.

This amount has been chosen so that there is a uniform basis for assessment that also includes products that are hard to rub into the skin, said the industry association for personal care and laundry products in Frankfurt.

Consumers typically rub in less than the amount used in the laboratory and spread it unevenly. Thus, it's smart to apply sunscreen, then wait about a half hour and apply it again, said Abeck, who teaches at Munich's technical university. This raises the protection to the expected level.

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