Less Effective Sunscreen? Stop Doing These Things When Applying SPF

If there is one skincare product that you should always include in your daily regimen, it must be sunscreen. Apart from reducing your risk of skin cancer and protecting you from sunburn, quality formulas can also help minimize the signs of aging, as well as prevent the worsening of existing and the appearance of new spider veins on the face. 

While there is no doubt about what a sunscreen can do, there are some habits that can make your application less effective. Continue reading as we list the things that can reduce the effectiveness of your sunscreen and what you can do to better protect your skin against premature aging and skin cancer. 

Mixing sunscreen with other products

It is unlikely to get the full protection your sunscreen promises if you mix it with other products. Doing so may dilute the formula’s sun protection factor or SPF, which can then increase your susceptibility to skin damage like sunburns. There might also be chemical reactions between ingredients that may render the sunscreen ineffective. 

What you should do instead is to layer it under other products. Wait for your serum or moisturizer to dry and then apply sunscreen. Be generous with your application and choose a broad-spectrum formula with SPF 30 or higher and right for your skin type. Don’t rely on the SPF on your moisturizer or makeup. 

Applying too many products underneath your sunscreen

Using tons of products on your face isn’t just a waste of money; it also creates a barrier that will prevent your sunscreen from properly coating and protecting your skin. Besides, applying too many products can also result in skin-care pilling or the formation of tiny granules that accumulate and fall off or transfer onto your fingers. 

The best thing you can do is reduce the products you’re using. During the daytime, you can keep it simple by cleansing using a gentle formula, applying an antioxidant like a vitamin C serum, moisturizing, and then applying your SPF. Wait for a few minutes between each application and allow the product to dry before applying the next layer.

Using face oil with your sunscreen

There is no conclusive evidence that facial oils negatively affect the effectiveness of sunscreen. There is a belief, however, that oils might break down your SPF and render it less effective. It is also worth noting that many oil-based cleansers are powerful enough to break down or dissolve water-based sunscreen and makeup.

To be on the safe side, use your facial oil when you’re not applying sunscreen, like at night. This can help boost the efficacy of both products and make sure that you’re getting the full protection your sunscreen promises. Facial oils, furthermore, are easily absorbed at night. 

Using too little or an old bottle

Your sunscreen cannot give you the full protection advertised on the bottle if you don’t use enough of it. The suggested amount is ¼ teaspoon for your face and another ¼ teaspoon for your neck and upper chest. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, you need an ounce or a shot glass full of sunscreen to cover the entire body. 

Using an old sunscreen is also a big no. Look for the product’s expiration date and if you can’t see it, it has probably been rubbed off or erased. It is worth noting that sunscreens have a shelf life of about three years. If you are not sure how long you’ve had your SPF, it is best to toss it out and buy a new one. 

For further reading: 9 Ways to Up Your Sunscreen and Sun Protection Game

The SPF we recommend

If you’re in the market for a new sunscreen, Dr. Sylvia’s Sunshield SPF 45 is worth considering. This broad-spectrum formula is also packed with skin-loving ingredients that can nourish and hydrate the skin. 

Key benefits include: 

• Lightweight and non-greasy
• Offers protection against UVA and UVB rays
• Hydrates and moisturizes, keeping the skin soft and supple
• Skin soothing; can calm the skin and reduce redness and irritation
• Free from dyes and fragrances, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin

For more skincare tips and product recommendations, browse through our blog today. Don’t hesitate to contact Cutis Medical Laser Clinics in Singapore and book a consultation with our aesthetic doctor for skin concerns that you wish to address or improve. Let us be your partner in achieving your beauty, skincare, and body goals.