Most People Apply Sunscreen Wrong. Are YOU Doing It Right?
Sunscreen is one of the most crucial defenses we have against the sun’s harmful UV rays that cause premature aging, sunburns, and even skin cancer. However, a shocking number of people are making basic mistakes when it comes to applying sunscreen properly.
According to a 2021 survey conducted by the American Academy of Dermatology, only about one-third of Americans use sunscreen regularly. And among those who do use it, nearly 80% admit to making at least one crucial error in how they apply sunscreen or when they apply it.
Clearly, many people are missing out on the full protective benefits of sunscreen due to simple application mistakes. Are you one of them? Let’s explore the most common sunscreen errors and how to apply sunscreen the right way.
Common Sunscreen Mistakes
Not Using Enough Product
One of the biggest blunders is failing to apply a sufficient amount of sunscreen. Most experts recommend using 1 ounce (about a shot glass full) to cover your entire body. Yet studies show the average person applies only 25-50% of the recommended amount.
Not Reapplying
You can’t just slather on sunscreen once and expect full coverage all day. Sunscreen becomes less effective over time due to sweat, water exposure, towel drying, and simply being worn or rubbed off. Sunscreen should be reapplied at least every 2 hours and immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.
Missing Key Areas
People frequently overlook easy-to-miss spots like the tops of feet, ears, lips, around the eyes, scalp (if you have thinning hair), and the back of the neck. These exposed areas can become severely burned without proper protection.
Using Old Sunscreen
Check those dusty bottles in your beach bag! Sunscreen deteriorates over time and loses its effectiveness, especially once opened. Most sunscreens are only stable for 3 years from the date of manufacture. Toss any expired products.
Not Waiting Before Sun Exposure
It takes about 15-30 minutes for sunscreen to fully bind to the skin. Many people burn because they immediately head outdoors after slathering on sunscreen, not allowing it to be absorbed first.
Using Low SPF
While no SPF can block 100% of UV rays, most experts recommend using broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher for adequate protection. Lower SPFs miss shielding you from enough UVA radiation that leads to premature aging.
Applying Under Makeup Only
Blend sunscreen into freshly cleansed skin before applying makeup for best protection. Putting it over makeup results in an uneven application with missed zones. Powder sunscreens do not create an effective UV barrier.
Using Last Year’s Bottle
Like food, sunscreens have “best if used by” dates you should follow. Sunscreens degrade and lose potency over time due to exposure to heat and air. Opt for a new bottle each season for maximum efficacy.
Applying Sunscreen the Right Way
Now that we know the pitfalls, here’s a quick refresher on how to apply sunscreen properly:
1. Use a generous, high-SPF, broad-spectrum sunscreen formulated for your skin type. Look for water-resistant sport options for swimming/sweating. SPF 30 or higher is recommended.
2. Apply sunscreen generously to all exposed areas 15-30 minutes before going outdoors. Use about 1 ounce to cover your entire body. Don’t forget often-missed spots like ears, hairline, neck, feet, etc.
3. Reapply sunscreen at least once every 2 hours, especially after sweating or swimming. More frequent reapplication is better for optimal coverage.
4. Be extra cautious between 10am-2pm when the sun’s rays are most intense. Seek shade as much as possible during peak hours.
5. Check expiration dates and discard old sunscreens. Opt for fresh bottles at the start of each season. Store sunscreen out of direct heat/sunlight.
6. Wear protective clothing, hats, and sunglasses in addition to sunscreen for maximum defense against UV exposure.
By following these simple tips, you’ll be well on your way to smart sunscreen usage that keeps your skin youthful, burn-free, and drastically reduces your skin cancer risk.
Expert Insight: Dr. Rachel McMinn, Dermatologist
“People often underestimate how much sunscreen they truly need to apply for proper coverage. As a general rule, adults should use a shot glass full to cover all exposed areas. It takes that much to create an effective UV barrier.”
Notable Statistics:
- Only 14.3% of men and 29.9% of women regularly use sunscreen on their face and other exposed skin.
- The risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, doubles if you have had more than 5 sunburns.
- Using sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher reduces melanoma risk by 50-73%.
Don’t let sunscreen mistakes leave you with a nasty burn, leathery skin, or an increased cancer risk down the road. Apply sunscreen early, apply enough, reapply often, and make it part of your daily routine. Your skin will thank you for making sunscreen a healthy habit!