Biggest Sunscreen Mistakes You Probably Don’t Know You’re Making

Sunscreen doesn’t just protect your skin against sunburn. It also helps keep your skin healthy by reducing the effects of sun damage, such as discoloration, sagging, and wrinkles. While most people understand the importance of using sunscreen, many make simple mistakes that make the product less effective. You probably don’t even know you’re doing a few of these.

1. Only Wearing Sunscreen Outdoors

Most people only slather on sunscreen if they’re going to the beach or plan to be outdoors for an extended period of time. In reality, you should be wearing sunscreen anytime you’re in contact with the sun. This includes when you’re sitting in a vehicle or in front of a window during the day.

2. You’re Not Using Enough

When you don’t put enough sunscreen on your skin, you’re reducing the effectiveness of the product. Studies have shown that most people only apply 25 to 50 percent of the recommended amount. Be sure to apply enough product to cover all exposed areas of skin. For most adults, this is about 1 ounce or enough sunscreen to fill a shot glass.

3. Assuming a High SPF Means More Time in the Sun

Many people believe that if they apply a sunscreen with a high SPF, they can spend more time in the sun without reapplying. This can give some people a false sense of security. It doesn’t matter the SPF; you should still reapply your sunscreen at least every two hours or more often if you’re spending a lot of time in the water.

4. Not Protecting Your Lips

You probably spend time slathering sunscreen all over your face and body, but what about your lips? Your lips are also vulnerable to harmful UV rays and require protection from the sun. However, you do not want to apply regular sunscreen to your lips. Instead, choose a lip balm that contains SPF.

5. Avoiding Sunscreen When It’s Cloudy

The sun doesn’t necessarily need to be out and shining for you to suffer sun damage. You can succumb to the effects of UV rays even if it’s cloudy or overcast. This is because the sun’s rays are able to pass through the clouds and penetrate your skin. The same applies if you’re wearing a hat or sitting under an umbrella. While having shade can be useful, it does not fully protect you from the sun.

6. Neglecting the Ingredient List

Not all sunscreens are made equal. It is important to read the ingredient list to see exactly what you’re putting on your skin, especially when it comes to facial sunscreens. Opt for a sunscreen that offers broad spectrum coverage and anti-aging benefits, such as Dr. Sylvia’s Clear Defense SPF 45 with Broad-Spectrum. This lightweight sunscreen prevents UVA and UVB skin damage, improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, boosts skin firmness, and does not leave any sticky residue behind.

Want to learn more about our sunscreen products? Contact Dr. Sylvia Ramirez today at the Cutis Laser Clinics in Singapore.