Sunscreen mistakes are easy to make, especially when you think you’re doing everything right!
Maybe you work hard to choose what you think is a safe formula, then apply it regularly before going out. You might even have a bottle in your car just in case.
But then your skin still turns pink or you notice a burn on one part of you know you put on sunscreen What happened?
The truth is that sunscreen only works when it’s the right kind, used in the right amount, and reapplied at the right time.
This sounds a bit complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. Once you know the most common sunscreen mistakes most people make, you can make sure you’re keeping your skin protected.
What are the sunscreen mistakes?
For most of us, it took several reminders just to remember to wear sunscreen. So when we finally make it a regular habit, we can feel like we’re all good in that department.
Unfortunately, common sunscreen mistakes are reducing 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 they go deeper into the skin and are linked to premature aging, dark spots and skin damage over time.
That’s why dermatologists recommend a “broad spectrum” sunscreen, as it will protect against both types of UV rays. The SPF number primarily measures UVB protection, so the words “broad spectrum” are important as this indicates that you are more likely to get protection from both.
If you have sensitive skin, it’s even more important to know what you’re doing with your sunscreen. Otherwise, you’re likely to experience even more redness, breakouts, irritation, and more damage to your already vulnerable skin barrier.
Sunscreen mistakes: You use too little
Most people don’t use enough sunscreen for the SPF to be listed on the bottle. The sunscreen is lab tested using a thick, even layer. In real life, we usually apply a thinner layer for a few reasons. First, we may want to keep the bottle for as long as possible. Second, we don’t want to look greasy or shiny.
A study by Nambour trial for the prevention of skin cancer found that people applied an average amount of only 0.79 mg/cm²which was less than half the amount needed to achieve the SPF.
The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) states that most adults need at least about an ounce, or the amount of a pint glass, 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 in sections and then rub in gently. Don’t forget your ears, hairline, neck and the back of your hands.
Sunscreen mistakes: Not to be repeated
Most of us forget that sunscreen is unlikely to last all day. It wears down from sunlight, sweat, water, skin oils, rubbing and time.
This means we have to reapply more than we think. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends applying at least every two hours and more often if you swim or sweat. THE adds the AAD that people who burn usually use too little, forget to reapply, or use expired sunscreen.
To help yourself remember, try combining the reappraisal with something you’re already doing. 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, this often means a mineral sunscreen with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are considered the safest sunscreens. THE The FDA actually recommends these two are generally safe and effective. They sit on top of the skin and help reflect or diffuse UV rays.
Mineral sunscreens are also less likely to sting or irritate the skin than chemical sunscreens, so they’re often better for sensitive skin. The trade-off is that some may 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’re likely to find one you’re happy with.
If you have sensitive skin, always test a small patch first. Look for fragrance-free options, and if you’re wearing makeup, try a tinted mineral sunscreen so it blends in more easily.
Sunscreen mistakes: Using expired or overheated sunscreen
The FDA says so 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 cause it to deteriorate. If your sunscreen smells funny, is discolored, or looks separated, throw it away.
It may be best not to leave sunscreen in the car or beach bag as this will heat it up. Keep it in a cool place inside, then if you take it outside with you, wrap it in a towel and keep it in the shade.
Sunscreen Mistakes: We rely on sunscreen alone
Sunscreen helps, but it’s best not to rely on it completely. Even a good broad-spectrum sunscreen doesn’t block every UV ray. THE AAD says SPF 30 block about 97 percent of UVB rays, but no sunscreen blocks 100 percent. This means that some UV exposure will still reach the skin.
A studyfor example, he found that shade and protective clothing can be more effective than sunscreen as people commonly use it in real life. Data on more than 3,000 people found that frequent sunscreen use was not associated with fewer sunburns, but that the odds of multiple sunburns were significantly lower in those who frequently avoided the sun by seeking shade or wearing long sleeves.
THE The FDA recommends using sunscreen together with other sun-safe habits such as wearing hats, sunglasses and protective clothing. Limit your time in the strong midday sun. This is especially important for sensitive skin because less UV exposure usually means less redness and dryness and fewer breakouts.
Sunscreen mistakes: Ignoring ingredients that may raise concerns
Another big mistake with sunscreens is thinking they are all basically the same.
Is not.
Sunscreens use different ingredients. Some use mineral filters, as mentioned above, such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide. These are considered the safest as 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 some health concerns. Some research, for example, has shown that it can act as hormone disruptorsinterfering with hormones in the body. Oxybenzone, also called benzophenone-3, is one of the most studied. Octinoxate has also been studied for potential hormone-related effects.
There are also concerns about retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A that is sometimes added to sunscreens. Vitamin A ingredients may be helpful in nighttime skin care, but during the day, can be analyzed from 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 is the simple version:
- Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher
- Use enough to cover all exposed skin (more than you think)
- Apply 15 minutes before going out
- Reapply every two hours and sooner after swimming or sweating
- Don’t count on SPF makeup as your only protection
- Replace the old sunscreen
- Support sensitive skin with gentle barrier-loving care before and after sun exposure (our CV Skinlabs products are perfect for this!)
Your skin doesn’t need a complicated sun protection routine. Just get in the habit of using a safe sunscreen and seek out that shady tree when you can!
Featured image from Kampus Production via Pexels.
