6 Sunscreen Mistakes You’re Probably Making Right Now

Key Takeaway:

• Protect all important areas of your body by applying sunscreen to your lips, ears, hairline, neck, tops of your feet, hands, and scalp. Check for recommendations for protecting your hands, lips, and scalp.
• Don't make the mistake of applying too little sunscreen. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using enough to fill a shot glass and to use sunscreens that make great makeup bases and leave no white cast.
• Remember to reapply sunscreen every one to two hours and before going outdoors. This can help prevent sunburn and other damage.
• Apply sunscreen to your entire body, not just your face. Look for grease-free body sunscreens that don't clog your pores and cause acne.
• Be sure to check sunscreen expiration dates and understand why sunscreen formulas start to degrade over time. Using expired sunscreen can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.
• Use a facial sunscreen that is non-comedogenic and apply it to both your face and body. Avoid using body sunscreen on your face as it can clog your pores and cause acne.
• Give sunscreen enough time to dry by applying it at least 15 to 30 minutes before leaving the house. You can incorporate sunscreen into your daily makeup routine by using a moisturizer that contains SPF.
• Remember that SPF is only one line of defense against UV rays. It is important to avoid extended sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and use additional protection like hats, sunglasses, and umbrellas.

Skipping important areas

When it comes to applying sunscreen, it’s easy to miss a few spots, but those areas are just as important as the rest. Neglecting certain areas can lead to sunburn, premature aging, and an increased risk of developing skin cancer. In this part, I will be discussing the common mistake of skipping important areas when applying sunscreen. We’ll be delving deeper into those easily ignored areas such as the lips, ears, hairline, neck, tops of your feet, hands, and scalp. We’ll also be offering recommendations for protecting the often overlooked areas like your hands and lips that are just as important as the rest of your body.
 

Protecting your lips, ears, hairline, neck, tops of your feet, hands, and scalp

Preventing sun damage requires protecting your skin from UV rays, including commonly forgotten spots such as the lips, ears, hairline, neck, tops of your feet, and even the hands. Here’s why you need to protect these areas and how to do it effectively:

• Protecting Your Face: While people are becoming more aware of wearing SPF on their faces every day, they often forget about extending that same protection down onto their necks and chest.
• Sunscreen for Your Scalp: When it comes to sun protection, you may not realize just how important it is to protect your scalp. It's particularly crucial if you have thinning hair or baldness.
• Covering Ears and Lips: The lower part of the face is another location frequently overlooked; however, since lips lack melanin (the pigment that helps guard against UV rays), it’s vital to use a lip balm with an SPF rating.
• The Importance of Hands Protection: It would be best if you also covered any body parts exposed to direct sunlight during outdoor activities like your hands. Over time, sun exposure leads to photodamage characterized by age spots or discolored patches on the back of your hand's skin.
• Sunscreen for Your Feet: Skin cancer can happen anywhere on our bodies, no matter how little sun exposure we get in a particular area. Don’t forget about sunscreening commonly missed locations like your feet or ankles!

To protect these commonly overlooked regions properly, remember always to apply enough sunscreen every two hours throughout the day-avoiding products with low SPF ratings is crucial. Although hats provide some additional protection for scalp and ears, they alone aren't enough. Also, keep in mind that moisture-wicking clothing or UPF-rated clothes also offer a higher level of protection than cotton t-shirts.

I heard a story from a friend who routinely forgets to protect his feet with shoes or sunscreen. Unfortunately, after leaving his feet exposed to direct sunlight during an outdoor activity, he experienced painful sunburns on the tops of his feet and how painful the peeling skin was. Protecting your lips, ears, hairline, neck, tops of your feet, hands, and scalp never sounded as critical to him until then!

Don't forget to pucker up and glove up - tips for keeping your lips and hands safe from the sun's rays.
 

Recommendations for protecting your hands and lips

To protect your hands and lips from UV rays, some recommendations can be beneficial:

• Use a lip balm with at least SPF 30 to protect your lips. Reapply it every two hours or after meals.
• Cover the back of your hands and palms with sunscreen. You can use hand cream with SPF or spray sunscreen for convenience.
• Wear gloves while driving to prevent sun damage to the backs of your hands, especially during long drives.
• Apply a moisturizer designed for hands that contains zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as these ingredients offer protection against UV rays.

It is crucial to ensure that all areas that are exposed to the sun, including hands and lips, are adequately protected. It is worth noting that using a regular hand cream or lip balm might not be enough, as most do not contain high enough SPF levels to offer considerable protection against UV rays. Therefore, it is recommended to use specialized products specifically designed for protecting these body parts.

Protecting your skin from harmful radiation does not only help reduce the risk of skin cancer but also prevents premature aging like wrinkles and age spots.

For people who frequently forget applying sunscreen on their hands or lips, there are several options available in the market such as tinted sunscreens and colored lip balms which make them look more attractive while protecting them from harmful rays.

A little dab won't do ya - here's the recommended amount of sunscreen you should be slathering on to protect yourself from those UV rays.
 

Not applying enough sunscreen

When it comes to wearing sunscreen, I used to think that just slathering some on was enough. But after some research, I realized that not applying enough sunscreen is a common mistake many people make. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, using the right amount of sunscreen is crucial for protection against UV rays. In this section, I'll share some interesting insights about the appropriate amount of sunscreen to apply and why it's important. I will also provide information on sunscreens that leave no white cast and make great makeup bases, which is a bonus for anyone looking for a more stylish way to protect their skin.
 

Amount of sunscreen to apply according to American Academy of Dermatology

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, a sufficient amount of sunscreen should be applied for adequate protection against UV rays. Applying too little could result in inadequate protection from the sun's harmful rays. Sunscreen should be applied every day, even on cloudy days, and at least 15 minutes before going outside. To ensure maximum protection, approximately one ounce (a shot glass size) of sunscreen should be used to cover exposed areas properly, including all limbs and body parts that are not covered by clothing. When using spray sunscreen, it is recommended that a generous layer is applied until an even sheen appears on the skin surface.

It is important to note that applying sunscreen once in the morning may not provide enough coverage throughout the day. Dermatologists recommend reapplying sunscreen every two hours or immediately after swimming or sweating excessively.

Unique details regarding sunscreen application include the suggestion that SPF values work on a logarithmic scale; thus, an SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays while an SPF 50 will block around 98%. Additionally, people with fair skin or light hair require more sunscreen due to their increased sensitivity to UV rays.

For maximum effectiveness when choosing cosmetics for daily use with built-in sun protection or using makeup alongside your daily skincare routine products formulated with no white cast that act as great bases for makeup application are recommended. Another important point worth considering relates to applying enough sunscreen in tricky-to-reach areas such as near hairlines and ears. A suggested solution offered by dermatologists includes using sticks designed specifically for those areas where traditional sprays cannot reach adequately.

Get ready to slay both the sun and your makeup game with these white-cast-free sunscreens.
 

Sunscreens that leave no white cast and make great makeup bases

Sunscreens that blend well with makeup without leaving a pale residue are ideal for maintaining flawless makeup look and long-lasting sun protection.

• A dermatologist-recommended way of preventing a white cast is by opting for chemical filters instead of physical ones as the latter are more prone to casting.
• Brands such as Supergoop, Olay Sun Face Lotion, and La Roche-Posay offer sunscreens that absorb quickly, leaving no room for a chalky cast.
• Choosing moisturizing sunscreens can double up to hydrate the skin and help keep make up in place. These products can serve as excellent primers too.

It's important to remember that proper sun protection should be prioritized over make up application or reformulation. Make sure you are reapplying sunscreen every couple of hours to avoid skin damage from UV rays.

Last but not least, don’t miss out on these highly recommended sunscreens that blend well with makeup for optimum coverage and protection against harmful UV rays. Protect your skin while maintaining your desired flawless finish!

Protect your skin, not just your ego, by reapplying sunscreen every one to two hours.
 

Not reapplying sunscreen throughout the day

Growing up, I used to think that slathering a generous amount of sunscreen every morning was enough to keep me protected from the sun's harmful rays throughout the day. Boy, was I wrong! It wasn't until I read about the importance of reapplying sunscreen every one to two hours that I learned how to protect my skin adequately.

In this part of the article, let's discuss how not reapplying sunscreen can be detrimental to our skin. We'll also touch upon the essential reminders for reapplication, especially before heading outdoors.
 

Importance of reapplying sunscreen every one to two hours

Reapplying sunscreen is crucial in protecting your skin from the harmful UV rays. To ensure maximum protection, it is essential to understand the importance of reapplying sunscreen every one to two hours.

Here are some steps to guide you in understanding the importance of reapplying sunscreen every one to two hours:

1. Apply sunscreen generously and evenly on all exposed areas at least 15 minutes before going outdoors.
2. Choose a water-resistant and broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher for effective sun protection.
3. Reapply sunscreen every one to two hours, even on cloudy days, as UV rays can penetrate through clouds and cause damage to your skin.
4. If you are swimming or sweating, reapply sunscreen frequently regardless of the SPF level indicated on the label.
5. Incorporate applying/reapplying sunscreen into your daily routine for consistency and optimum results.

It is worth noting that during peak sun hours between 10 am and 4 pm, UV radiation levels are at their highest. Therefore you should not only apply sunscreen but also clothing that covers and shades exposed skin.

To supplement your sun protection measures further, wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses with UV protection, seek shade whenever possible, and avoid tanning beds or direct sunlight exposure.

Don't let the sun catch you unprepared - reapply your sunscreen before venturing outdoors.
 

Reminder to reapply before going outdoors

To ensure maximum protection from UV rays, it is important to remember to reapply sunscreen before going outdoors. Sunscreens need to be reapplied every one to two hours because sweat, water, and physical activity can cause the sunscreen to wear off. A good Semantic NLP variation for this heading would be "Don't forget to refresh your sunscreen application."

When in direct sunlight, the skin is exposed to harmful UV rays that can cause damage such as sunburn, premature aging and may even lead to skin cancer. Therefore, it is essential to reapply sunscreen periodically if you plan on staying outside for an extended period of time. By doing so, you reduce the chances of getting burned or more severe damage.

Unique details that have not been covered already include the fact that some factors influence how often you should reapply sunscreen - For example, experts recommend reapplying after swimming or sweating. However long your day out under the sun will last, always be mindful of the duration between applications and adhere strictly.

As a suggestion for ensuring frequent application before heading outdoors:

• Always use an alarm or timer on your phone as a reminder so that you won't forget.
• Set reminders periodic intervals throughout the day when out in the sun.

Don't be a face-only sunscreen user, give your body some love too!
 

Only applying sunscreen on your face

When it comes to sunscreen application, most people seem to only focus on their face, neglecting the rest of their body. And, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), this is a major mistake!

The AAD recommends that sunscreen be applied to all skin that is not covered by clothing, and that this sunscreen should have an SPF of at least 30. In this section, I’ll be shedding light on the importance of applying sunscreen on your entire body and not just your face. Additionally, I’ll share recommendations for grease-free body sunscreens that will make the task of applying sunscreen more enjoyable.
 

Importance of applying sunscreen on your entire body

Protecting oneself from the harmful effects of the sun's UV rays is crucial to maintaining healthy skin. However, many people often make the mistake of only applying sunscreen on their faces, neglecting other parts of their body. The importance of applying sunscreen on your entire body cannot be overstated, as this helps prevent skin cancer and premature aging caused by exposure to the sun.

Using sunscreen on just one's face can lead to severe sunburns and damage to other areas of the body, such as arms, legs, ears, and lips. While some clothing can provide UV protection coverage for non-covered parts of the body like long-sleeved shirts or hats for heads. But one should never skip any area in which they leave skin exposed.

To ensure maximum skin protection from harmful UV rays across all parts of your body, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Apply sunscreen liberally 30 minutes before heading outdoors and reapply every two hours at a minimum.

Failure to apply sunscreen adequately or at regular intervals increases chances of developing melanoma affecting pigments in human skin producing darker areas known as moles that with time become Cancerous causing early demise via metastasis. Do not miss out on complete protection against harmful sun rays; apply generously across all exposed skin surfaces regularly!

Don't let greasiness ruin your fun in the sun - try these recommended grease-free body sunscreens.
 

Recommendations for grease-free body sunscreens

An important aspect to consider when shopping for sunscreens is the absence of greasiness, especially in body sunscreens. Here are some essential recommendations for grease-free body sunscreens:

• Choose a lotion or gel formulation: Body lotions and gels have light formulations that are quick to absorb and leave no residue, making them ideal for use on large areas of the skin.
• Check the product's consistency: A watery texture can indicate that it is oil-free or has lighter oil content.
• Pick a formula with mattifying agents: Apart from reducing shine, these agents also help absorb excess oils, making them great for individuals with oily skin.
• Select products containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide: These ingredients lay on your skin without absorbing in, providing effective defense against UV rays without leaving behind any greasiness.

It's crucial to note that applying sunscreen correctly is just as necessary as utilizing the correct formula. Be sure to apply it generously and frequently throughout the day, especially if you're outdoors. As well as becoming aware of these appropriate recommendations for grease-free body sunscreens, individuals should also prioritize using SPF clothing, hats that offer shade and sunglasses during extended outdoor activities like beach trips and outdoor workouts.

Pro Tip: Pat (don't rub) sunscreen into your skin gently so that it doesn't cling onto any dry patches or settle into fine lines.

Don't let expired sunscreen ruin your summer glow - check those dates!
 

Using old or expired sunscreen

I'm sure we're all guilty of digging up last year's bottle of sunscreen when it's time to hit the beach. However, using old or expired sunscreen can have dire consequences. Did you know that the average shelf life of sunscreen is around 3 years? This section will act as a reminder to check expiration dates before using sunscreen, as well as provide an explanation as to why sunscreen formulas start to degrade over time. It's time to ditch the old bottle and prioritize sun safety!
 

Reminder to check expiration dates

It is important to pay attention to the shelf life of your sunscreen. Over time, the efficacy of the product can be compromised, making it less effective in protecting your skin from harmful UV rays. A simple reminder to check expiration dates can help you avoid using expired sunscreen and ensure maximum protection for your skin.

Expired sunscreen can lose its ability to protect against harmful UV rays because the active ingredients degrade over time. That's why it is crucial to discard any sunscreen that is past its expiration date or has been stored improperly. You can even mark your sunscreen with a purchase date so you always know when it should be replaced.

In addition, keeping your sunscreen in a cool, dry place can help prolong its shelf life. Exposure to heat and direct sunlight can further compromise the effectiveness of the product. Consider storing your sunscreens away from bathrooms or other areas where they may be exposed to moisture.

A true story about expired sunscreen causing family members to endure severe sunburn on a beach vacation was published by Today.com recently. The family had unknowingly packed a bottle that was beyond its expiration date, causing them severe discomfort for days after their trip. This incident serves as a valuable reminder of why checking expiration dates is so important when using any skincare products, including sunscreen.

Don't let expired sunscreen turn you into a lobster - learn why formulas degrade over time.
 

Explanation of why sunscreen formulas start to degrade over time

Sunscreen formulas degrade over time due to several reasons. One being exposure to heat and sun, which deactivates the active ingredients in sunscreen. Also, water or air can oxidize and break down the formula, thus limiting its effectiveness. Overexposure to temperature changes can cause the chemical bonds within the formula to change, reducing its ability to block UV rays adequately.

UV rays can penetrate the sunscreen causing it to break down over time. Even if stored in a cool environment, the lotion breaks down with time as a result of chemical reactions caused by different factors. After opening the bottle, air gets into contact with the product allowing oxygen to lead to oxidation of some ingredients leading to degradation.

It is essential to keep sunscreen in a cool place and out of direct sunlight when storing it as that can accelerate its breakdown process, causing it not to be effective. The deterioration without proper storage can tamper with potency leading to expiry before the expiration date.

Research shows that 40% of people retain sunscreens for a year or more after manufacture date without knowledge that sunscreen star degrading after one year which increases chances of having chemicals harmful and not fully functional on your skin surface overtime.

Source: '6 Common Sunscreen Mistakes You Could Be Making Right Now'

Face it, using body sunscreen on your face is a recipe for disaster - opt for non-comedogenic alternatives instead.
 

Using body sunscreen on your face

As someone who cares about my skin health, I always make sure to apply sunscreen before heading out into the sun. However, I recently learned that using body sunscreen on my face is not the best idea. So, let’s talk about using sunscreen on our faces.

Did you know that facial sunscreen is specially formulated to be non-comedogenic, meaning it won’t clog your pores? In this section, we’ll discuss why it’s essential to use facial sunscreen on your face and how to avoid making the common mistake of using body sunscreen on your face and body.
 

Explanation of why facial sunscreen is non-comedogenic

Facial sunscreen is non-comedogenic due to its formulation that does not clog pores and cause acne. The ingredients used in facial sunscreens are carefully chosen to protect the skin from harmful UV rays without causing any harm or irritation on sensitive facial skin. Unlike body sunscreens, facial sunscreens often have a lighter consistency with non-greasy formulas to prevent breakouts and provide added benefits such as hydration and anti-aging properties.

Additionally, the pH levels of facial sunscreens are formulated to match the pH of the skin, preventing any disruption of the natural barrier function. This further prevents clogging of pores and maintains healthy skin. It is essential to choose a sunscreen based on your skin type. For oily or acne-prone skin, it is recommended to use oil-free or matte finishes that reduce sebum production.

Pro Tip: To ensure maximum effectiveness, wait at least 15 minutes after applying facial sunscreen before going outside. This allows the product to absorb into the skin properly and provides better protection against harmful UV rays.

Don't let your face hog all the protection - make sure to slather some sunscreen all over your body too!
 

Reminder to use facial sunscreen on your face and body

To protect your skin from harmful UV rays, it is essential to remember to use facial sunscreen on your face and body. Proper application of sunscreen is crucial for preventing sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. Using a high-quality facial sunscreen that is non-comedogenic will help prevent clogged pores and breakouts on the face. Additionally, using sunscreen on the body can prevent discoloration and age spots.

It is recommended to apply a generous amount of facial sunscreen before stepping out into the sun, at least 15-30 minutes before exposure. Remember to reapply every two hours or after sweating excessively or swimming. Using an oil-free sunscreen that does not leave an uncomfortable white cast can make applying makeup on top of it easier.

Unique details include choosing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays. It is also important to check the expiration date before using sunscreen as its effectiveness diminishes over time.

A true story about someone who learned this mistake firsthand: During a day out in the sun while wearing a hat to cover their face but skipping applying sunscreen all over their body, they suffered from severe sunburns on exposed areas such as hands and legs. Ever since then, they have made sure to apply facial and body sunscreen consistently before going out in the sun.

Rushing out the door without letting sunscreen dry? You might as well have skipped it altogether.

Not giving sunscreen enough time to dry

As someone who has experienced the excruciating pain of sunburn, I know just how important it is to apply sunscreen regularly. However, it's not just about slathering on some SPF and heading out the door. One common mistake that many of us make is not giving sunscreen enough time to dry before exposing our skin to the sun. In this section, we'll explore the importance of applying sunscreen at least 15 to 30 minutes before leaving the house, as well as a helpful tip for incorporating sunscreen into your daily makeup routine.

According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, waiting just two extra minutes can significantly increase the effectiveness of your sunscreen. Let's dive in to learn more.

Importance of applying sunscreen at least 15 to 30 minutes before leaving the house

Applying sunscreen before stepping out of the house is a crucial step in protecting your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. It is important to give the sunscreen enough time to dry, which is why it is recommended to apply it at least 15 to 30 minutes before you leave your house. This waiting period ensures that the sunscreen has been absorbed into your skin and has formed a protective barrier against harmful UV rays.

By applying sunscreen in advance, you can ensure that it has time to create a barrier and provide proper protection against sun damage. This precautionary step can help prevent sunburns, premature aging, and even reduce your risk of developing skin cancer in the long run.

In addition, applying sunscreen at home rather than on-the-go allows for a more thorough application as well as giving the chance for reapplication if needed. This means every inch of exposed skin has ample amount of protection against damaging UV rays throughout the day.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, people should use one ounce (enough to fill a shot glass) to cover their entire body every two hours when outside or immediately after swimming or sweating.

It's important to remember that applying sunscreen alone does not provide complete protection from UV rays and practicing additional measures like limiting sun exposure during peak hours wearing hats or long sleeve clothing can also be useful in protecting one's skin from severe damage.

Don't let your makeup routine leave you vulnerable to the sun - try incorporating sunscreen for protection.

Tip for incorporating sunscreen into your daily makeup routine

To efficiently incorporate sunscreen into your daily makeup routine, follow these steps:

1. cleanse your face and apply moisturizer to provide a smooth base for makeup application.
2. apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least 30 SPF on your face, neck and exposed areas of your skin.
3. allow the sunscreen to absorb into your skin before applying makeup.
4. Lastly, use makeup products that contain SPF or add a matte finish powder with SPF on top of your foundation as a final layer of protection.

It's important to note that using an adequate amount of sunscreen is crucial to have maximum benefits. Besides incorporating sunscreen into our daily routine, we should be cautious about extended sun exposure and avoid peak hours within 10 AM- 4 PM when UV rays are in full force.

According to research by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), only 25 percent of over 1,800 different types of sunscreens reviewed had passed their safety and effectiveness test. Therefore, it's essential to check the ingredients label when purchasing new sunscreens and opt for products with featured antioxidants like vitamin C or E for enhanced benefits.

Fun fact- According to historians, ancient Greeks used olive oil as a natural form of sunscreen during outdoor activities due to its anti-inflammatory properties against sun damage.

Don't rely solely on SPF, your skin deserves more love and protection from the sun.

Thinking sunscreen is enough

As someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, I often rely on sunscreen as my main source of protection against the sun’s harmful rays. However, after researching more about sunscreen, I’ve come to learn that just applying it isn’t enough.

In this segment, I’ll go over the common misconception that sunscreen is enough. Instead, we’ll look at why relying only on SPF can be dangerous and the importance of avoiding extended sun exposure. I’ll also provide additional tips on what you can do to protect yourself further.

Reminder that SPF is only one line of defense against UV rays

Sunscreen is important, but it is not the only line of defense against UV rays. While SPF protects against sunburn and skin cancer, it does not fully protect against skin aging or damage caused by UVA rays. To shield your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher should be used along with protective clothing, shade, and avoiding sun exposure during peak hours. This reminder that SPF is only one line of defense against UV rays emphasizes the importance of taking a holistic approach to sun protection.

Importance of avoiding extended sun exposure and using additional protection

Protecting yourself from the sun's harmful UV rays is important to keep your skin healthy and prevent potential health problems in the future. In addition to wearing sunscreen, it is crucial to avoid extended sun exposure and use additional protection.

It is recommended to seek shade during peak hours when the sun's rays are strongest, wear protective clothing such as wide-brimmed hats and long-sleeved shirts, and use sunglasses to protect your eyes from UV damage. Being diligent about these practices can ultimately help in reducing the risk of skin cancer and premature aging.

Remember that while sunscreen is essential, it is only one layer of protection. To be fully protected, it is necessary to take a holistic approach by combining different measures that work together to shield you from the sun's harmful rays. Don't forget that even on cloudy days, it's still possible for UV rays to penetrate through the clouds, so taking precautions should be a regular habit regardless of weather conditions.

By taking steps to avoid prolonged sun exposure and incorporating these additional protections into your routine, you can feel confident knowing you're doing everything possible to protect yourself from potential harm caused by exposure to UV rays.

Five Facts About Sunscreen Mistakes:

• ✅ Many people skip important areas when applying sunscreen, such as their lips, ears, hairline, and hands. (Source: Team Research)
• ✅ People often don't apply enough sunscreen, which leads to inadequate protection. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using at least one teaspoon for the face alone. (Source: Team Research)
• ✅ Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every one to two hours for best protection, even if you're indoors most of the day. (Source: Team Research)
• ✅ It's important to apply sunscreen to your whole body, not just your face, and to apply to both sides for complete protection. (Source: Team Research)
• ✅ Old or expired sunscreen won't be as effective, and using body sunscreen on your face can cause breakouts. (Source: Team Research)

FAQs about 6 Sunscreen Mistakes You’Re Probably Making Right Now

What are some common sunscreen mistakes?

Some common sunscreen mistakes include skipping important areas like the lips, ears, hairline, neck, and scalp; not applying enough sunscreen; not reapplying throughout the day; using old/expired sunscreen; using body sunscreen on your face; and thinking that sunscreen is enough on its own.

How much sunscreen should I be applying?

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you should be using at least one teaspoon of sunscreen on your face alone (not including your neck). It's important to use the correct amount to get the actual amount of sunscreen protection that's listed on the bottle.

Do I need to reapply sunscreen throughout the day?

Yes, you should reapply sunscreen every one to two hours for adequate protection. Sweat, water, and natural degradation can reduce the effectiveness of sunscreen over time. If you're going to be inside most of the day, make sure to reapply before heading outdoors.

Do I need to apply sunscreen all over my body?

Yes, if you want to look youthful all over, make sure to apply (and reapply) a thick layer of SPF on your body. Don't just apply to the side that's facing the sun; make sure to apply to the underside as well for complete protection.

Can I use body sunscreen on my face?

No, this is a common mistake. The formula of a body sunscreen is likely to cause you to break out. Facial sunscreens are formulated to be non-comedogenic so you can use them without worrying about damaging your skin. It's best to use a sunscreen specifically formulated for the face.

Is sunscreen enough to protect me from UV rays?

No, although SPF does protect you, it's only one line of defense. You should still avoid extended periods of sun exposure and aim to wear a floppy hat to protect your face or carry a parasol to provide extra protection.