Sunscreen mistakes are easy to make, especially if you think you’re doing everything right!
Maybe you work hard to choose a formula you think is safe, and then apply it regularly before going outside. You might even have a bottle in your car, just in case.
But then your skin still turns pink, or you notice a burn where you sit know you applied sunscreen. What happened?
The truth is that sunscreen only works if it is the right kind, used in the right amount, and changed at the right time.
That sounds a bit complicated, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Once you know the common sunscreen mistakes most people make, you can ensure you keep your skin protected.
What are sunscreen mistakes?
For most of us, it took a lot of remembering to use sunscreen. So when we finally make it a habit, we can feel like we’re all good in that area.
Unfortunately, common sunscreen mistakes reduce your sun protection, and you probably don’t even realize it.
Let’s start with the basics. Sunscreen protects your skin from ultraviolet rays, also called UV rays. There are two main types:
- UVB rays are the ones most associated with sunburn.
- UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and over time are linked to premature aging, dark spots and skin damage.
That’s why dermatologists recommend a “broad-spectrum” sunscreen, because it protects against both types of UV rays. The SPF number usually measures UVB protection, so the words ‘broad spectrum’ are important as it shows that you are more likely to be protected against both.
If you have sensitive skin, it’s even more important to know what to do with sunscreen. Otherwise, you’ll likely experience even more redness, flare-ups, irritation, and more damage to your already fragile skin barrier.
Sunscreen mistakes: using too little
Most people don’t use enough sunscreen to get the SPF on the bottle. Sunscreen is laboratory tested with a thick, even layer. In real life, we usually apply a thinner layer for a number of reasons. First, we may want to keep the bottle for as long as possible. Secondly, we don’t want to look greasy or shiny.
One study from the Nambour research into skin cancer prevention found that people administered an average amount of only 0.79 mg/cm3²which was less than half the amount needed to reach the labeled SPF.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) states that most adults need at least about one ounce, or shot glass amount, to cover exposed body skin. For the face they recommend at least one teaspoon.
A simple rule: use more than you think you need. Apply it in sections and then rub it in gently. Don’t forget your ears, hairline, neck and the backs of your hands.
Sunscreen mistakes: Do not reapply
Most of us forget that sunscreen is unlikely to last all day. It is worn away by sunlight, sweat, water, skin oils, rubbing and time.
That means we have to reapply more than we think. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)FDA) recommends applying it at least every two hours, and more often if you swim or sweat. The adds AAD that people who burn usually use too little, forget to reapply or use expired sunscreen.
To help yourself remember, try combining the reapply with something you already do. Reapply after lunch, after a walk, after swimming or before driving home.
Sunscreen Mistakes: Choosing a Formula Your Skin Hates
The best sunscreen is the one you will actually use.
For many clean beauty enthusiasts, that often means a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are considered the safest sunscreens. The FDA even recommends it these two are generally considered safe and effective. They sit on top of the skin and help reflect or spread UV rays.
Mineral sunscreens are also less likely to sting or irritate the skin than chemical sunscreens, so they are often better for sensitive skin. The downside is that some can feel thicker or leave a white cast on the skin. But these formulas are getting better every day, and if you look for them, you’ll probably find one you’re happy with.
If you have sensitive skin, always try a small patch first. Look for fragrance-free options, and if you wear makeup, try a tinted mineral sunscreen so it blends more easily.
Sunscreen mistakes: Using expired or overheated sunscreen
That’s what the FDA says sunscreens without an expiration date should be considered expired three years after purchase. They also recommend protecting your sunscreen from direct sun and heat, as this can deteriorate it. If your sunscreen smells funny, has changed color, or looks separated, throw it away.
It’s probably best not to leave sunscreen in the car or beach bag because it will heat it up. Store it indoors in a cool place. If you take it outside, wrap it in a towel and keep it in the shade.
Sunscreen Mistakes: Relying on Sunscreen Only
Sunscreen helps, but it’s best not to rely on it completely. Even a good broad-spectrum sunscreen won’t block every UV ray. The AAD says SPF 30 blocks about 97 percent of UVB rays, but no sunscreen blocks 100 percent. This means that some UV exposure still reaches the skin.
One studyFor example, it turned out that shade and protective clothing can be more effective than sunscreen, which people typically use in real life. Data from more than 3,000 people showed that frequent sunscreen use was not associated with fewer sunburns, but the risk of multiple sunburns was significantly lower among those who often avoided the sun by seeking shade or wearing long sleeves.
The FDA recommends using sunscreen together with other sun-safe habits, such as wearing hats, sunglasses and protective clothing. Limit your time in the bright afternoon sun. This is especially important for sensitive skin, as less UV exposure usually means less redness and dryness and fewer flare-ups.
Sunscreen Mistakes: Ignoring Ingredients That May Cause Concern
Another big mistake with sunscreen is thinking they are all basically the same.
They’re not.
Sunscreens use different ingredients. Some use mineral filters, as mentioned above, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These are considered the safest because they sit on top of the skin. But many sunscreens use chemical filters such as oxybenzone, octinoxate, homosalate, octocrylene, avobenzone and others.
And chemical sunscreens have been linked to a number of health problems. For example, research has shown that this may be the case act as endocrine disruptorsthat disrupt the hormones in the body. Oxybenzone, also called benzophenone-3, is one of the most studied. Octinoxate has also been studied for possible hormone-related effects.
There are also concerns about retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A sometimes added to sunscreens. Vitamin A ingredients can be useful for nighttime skin care, but during the day they can be broken down by UV rays, after which they can contribute to free radical damage.
The safest approach is to look for broad-spectrum mineral sunscreens made with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide. You may also want to avoid sunscreens that contain chemical filters, especially those you use on your face every day.
How to avoid sunscreen mistakes every day
Here’s the simple version:
- Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher
- Use enough to cover all exposed skin (more than you think)
- Apply it 15 minutes before going outside
- Reapply every two hours, and sooner after swimming or sweating
- Don’t count on makeup SPF as your only protection
- Replace old sunscreen
- Support sensitive skin with gentle, barrier-friendly care before and after sun exposure (our CV Skinlabs products are great for this!)
Your skin doesn’t need a complicated sun protection routine. Just get in the habit of using a safe sunscreen, and if you can, find that shady tree!
Featured image by Kampus Production via Pexels.
