3-Finger Rule for Sunscreen: Correct Dosing and Application

The 3-finger rule helps you quickly hit the right amount of sunscreen without measuring. Apply three longer strips of sunscreen to your index, middle and ring finger. For most textures, this amount covers face plus neck and brings you closer to the recommended application of about 2 mg per cm² of skin.

How does the 3-finger rule work exactly?

Draw three continuous strips of sunscreen along your index, middle and ring finger. Then spread the cream over face, ears and neck, ideally in two thin layers: apply, let it set briefly, then apply the remaining amount. This ensures more even coverage and reduces gaps.

• 3-finger rule: Practical for face plus neck, especially with light gels, fluids and K-beauty textures.
• 2-finger rule: Often sufficient for the face alone or with very rich, high-coverage creams.
• Note on textures: Thinner products spread farther and feel lighter, but often need the full 3-finger amount.
• Fine-tuning: Smaller faces may need a bit less, larger a bit more. The key is a visible, even layer.

Popular, everyday-friendly SPF textures can be found here: Beauty of Joseon sunscreen (Relief Sun, etc.). More lightweight formulas: Isntree Hyaluronic Acid Watery Sun Gel & other SPFs.

How much sunscreen do you need for the whole body?

Use rules of thumb for the body: around 30 to 40 ml per full-body application for an adult. That’s roughly a shot glass. Plan so that a 200-ml bottle lasts only a few complete applications with consistent full-body use.

• Face and neck: 2 to 3 finger strips
• Each arm: about 1 teaspoon
• Each leg: about 2 teaspoons
• Torso front and back: about 1 tablespoon each

Don’t forget exposed areas: ears, nape, hairline/parting, backs of hands and tops of feet.

Application: order, timing and reapplication

• Order: In the morning as the last skincare step after your routine, before makeup.
• Timing: Chemical/organic filters are ideally applied 15 minutes before sun exposure. Mineral filters protect immediately but also benefit from a short set time.
• Reapplication: Every 2 hours and always after swimming, heavy sweating or abrasion from a towel, hat or mask.

More background on the importance of SPF in your routine: Why sunscreen is the most important step in your routine.

Choosing SPF: 30 or 50?

SPF 30 filters roughly 97 percent of UVB, SPF 50 about 98 percent. In reality many people apply too little. That’s why SPF 50 is often the safer choice, especially for fair skin, strong sun or sensitive skin. Also look for broad-spectrum UVA protection, indicated by PA ratings or the UVA circle on EU products.

For everyday use, SPF 30 to 50 makes sense. In strong sun, at the beach, in the mountains or if you tend to under-apply, go for SPF 50.

For sensitive skin, take a look at Purito SPF – gentle, fragrance-free sun protection.

Cream, gel, stick, spray: measuring correctly with the 3-finger rule

• Tubes/pumps: Note how many pumps equal roughly three finger strips. Pump output varies by manufacturer.
• Sprays: Spray close to the skin until an even sheen appears, then spread and repeat. Do not spray into the air.
• Sticks: Swipe over each area several times, then spread with clean hands so no gaps remain.

Prefer ultra-light, barely-there textures? Check out Bioré UV – lightweight Japanese sunscreens.

FAQ about the 3-finger rule

What is the 3-finger rule for sunscreen?

You dose sunscreen by placing three strips on your index, middle and ring finger. For many products, this amount covers face plus neck and helps you reach an adequate amount without a measuring cup.

How many fingers of sunscreen?

For the face alone, 2 fingers often suffice; for face plus neck, 3 fingers are practical. What matters is a uniform, visible layer and gap-free application.

Why not SPF 50?

There’s no reason to avoid SPF 50. Because people often apply too little, SPF 50 is more practical in real life, especially in intense sun or for sensitive skin.

In what order do you apply sunscreen?

As the last step of your morning routine after serum and moisturizer, before makeup. Then reapply regularly, especially after water, sweat or friction.

If you prefer lightweight, everyday textures, NoticeMe offers a wide selection of K-Beauty and J-Beauty sunscreens like creams, gels and sticks from brands such as Beauty of Joseon, Isntree, AXIS-Y, Bioré and Shiseido. Browse here: Sun care (SPF): all sunscreens and gels. Shipping from €35 in NL and €40 in DE, fast delivery on orders placed before 16:00.