Sunscreen is one of the most effective tools we have to protect our skin from harmful UV rays, premature aging, and skin cancer. But even the best sunscreen can’t do its job if it’s not used correctly. Many people apply sunscreen daily but unknowingly make mistakes that compromise its effectiveness. Here are 10 common sunscreen mistakes you might be making—and how to fix them.
Not Applying Enough
One of the biggest mistakes is underapplying sunscreen. Most adults need about a shot glass–sized amount (approximately 30 mL) to cover their entire body. For the face alone, a teaspoon is recommended. Using too little dramatically reduces protection and increases your risk of sunburn.
Forgetting to Reapply
Sunscreen isn’t a once-and-done deal. Even if the label says “water-resistant,” no sunscreen lasts all day. You should reapply every two hours, or immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying. Skipping this step leaves your skin vulnerable, especially during extended sun exposure.
Missing Key Areas
Commonly missed spots include ears, neck, hairline, tops of feet, backs of hands, and lips. These areas are just as prone to sunburn and long-term damage as the rest of your body. Using a lip balm with SPF and carefully applying sunscreen to overlooked zones can help ensure full protection.
Not Applying in Advance
Sunscreen needs time to absorb and form a protective layer. Ideally, apply it 15–30 minutes before sun exposure. If you wait until you’re already outside, your skin may be exposed before the sunscreen has a chance to work.
Relying Only on Makeup With SPF
Many foundations and powders now include SPF, which is great—but they often don’t provide sufficient protection on their own. Makeup with SPF can act as a helpful bonus, but it shouldn’t replace a dedicated sunscreen as your primary defense.
Using Expired Sunscreen
Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time. Check the expiration date on the bottle, and if it’s expired, toss it out. Using old sunscreen may leave you underprotected without realizing it.
Skipping Sunscreen on Cloudy Days
Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, meaning you can still get sunburned on overcast days. Make sunscreen part of your daily routine, no matter the weather, to protect your skin year-round.
Believing Darker Skin Doesn’t Need Sunscreen
While darker skin has more melanin, which offers some natural protection, it doesn’t prevent sun damage or skin cancer. Everyone, regardless of skin tone, should wear sunscreen to reduce the risk of UV-related harm.
Not Shaking the Bottle
Some sunscreens—especially chemical ones—can separate in the bottle over time. Always shake the bottle before applying to ensure the active ingredients are evenly distributed and provide consistent protection.
Neglecting Other Sun-Safety Measures
Even with sunscreen, it’s important to practice other forms of sun protection, such as wearing hats, sunglasses, and protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak UV hours (usually 10 AM to 4 PM). Sunscreen is a critical tool, but it’s most effective when combined with these habits.
Final Thoughts
Sunscreen is your skin’s best friend when it comes to sun protection, but only if used correctly. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make sure you’re giving your skin the defense it needs to stay healthy and youthful. Remember: consistency and proper application matter just as much as the SPF number on the label.
