Tuesday, April 15, 2014

Summertime Sun Suggestions: FTU

Alright, another short summer post! This time, it's for everyone's benefit....

A lot of reminders have been going up about wearing sunscreen or sunblock; the amount of SPF and PA it has to have; and how often to apply it - so i'm not going to go into that unless pressed. However, what I often fail to see is advice as to the amount of product you're supposed to use. I hear the term a shot glass full a little bit, but it's very hard to figure out how much you're really supposed to use.

So, I'd like to promote the idea of the Finger-Tip-Unit (FTU) for daily use.

An FTU is a straight line of product from the tip of one finger to the first crease/joint. It would help to do a basic google image source since there are pictures and tables easily available depending on one's age group. An FTU is usually used when dealing with topical corticosteroids, but work quite as well for your choice of sun protection since good coverage is required for both.

For the average adult:

Face and neck: 2.5 FTUs
Chest: 7 FTUs
Back: 7 FTUs
Arm: 3 FTUs
Hand: 1 FTU
Leg: 6 FTUs
Foot: 2 FTU

Note that this is the minimum amount you should use. If ever, err on the side of caution and add more if you feel like you need to.

Stay safe!

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