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As temperatures rise and outdoor plans increase, it’s crucial to understand that applying sunscreen incorrectly or not often enough can actually leave your skin more vulnerable.
Sunscreen is your skin’s first line of defense against harmful UV rays, but even those who are diligent about using it can fall into traps that reduce its effectiveness. As temperatures rise and outdoor plans increase, it’s crucial to understand that applying sunscreen incorrectly or not often enough can actually leave your skin more vulnerable. According to skincare experts and brand founders, most of us are unknowingly making simple yet damaging mistakes in our sunscreen routine.
1. Not Reapplying Often Enough
One of the most common sunscreen errors is treating it as a one-and-done product.
“Many people apply sunscreen once in the morning and assume they’re protected all day,” says Nitin Jain, founder, La Pink. “But sunscreen breaks down due to sweat, water, and even exposure to sunlight itself. You need to reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating, for continuous protection.”
2. Assuming It’s Only for Sunny Days
The idea that sunscreen is only necessary on bright, sunny days is outdated.
“UV rays can penetrate through clouds and even windows,” explains Shaonie Maitrra, Co-Founder of UNTAM3D. “So whether it’s cloudy or you’re working indoors, sunscreen is still essential.” In fact, indirect sun exposure—like sitting near a window or walking under tree shade—still contributes to long-term skin damage.
3. Underestimating Blue Light Damage
“Sunscreen today isn’t just about UV protection,” adds Kasturi Banerjjee, also a Co-Founder of UNTAM3D. “We’re constantly exposed to blue light from screens, which can cause pigmentation and oxidative stress.” Choosing sunscreens that offer protection from UVA, UVB, blue light, and even pollution is crucial in the digital age.
4. Relying Solely on Makeup with SPF
Many people believe that a foundation or moisturizer with SPF is enough. Not quite.
“SPF in makeup is not applied thickly or evenly enough to offer real protection,” explain Banerjjee and Maitrra. Instead, it should be layered on top of a base layer of a proper sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection.
5. Using Too Little Product
Quantity matters.
“An adult needs about one ounce of sunscreen—roughly a shot glass full—to cover their entire body,” says Jain. “Most people apply much less, which significantly lowers the level of protection.” Skimping on sunscreen is essentially like not using it at all.
6. Missing Key Areas
Certain areas like the ears, neck, lips, scalp, and feet are frequently overlooked. Jain advises using lip balm with SPF and even sunscreen sprays for hard-to-reach areas. “These areas burn just as easily and need equal attention.”
7. Using Expired Products
Always check the expiration date.
Sunscreens lose their effectiveness over time, and using expired products can lead to unexpected sunburns. Look for sunscreens that also include skin-repairing ingredients like aloe vera and ceramides to soothe and hydrate.
Avoiding these common sunscreen mistakes is the key to enjoying a burn-free, healthy summer. As Banerjjee notes, “Your sunscreen should be as versatile as your lifestyle—protecting you from sun, pollution, blue light, and beyond.” Make sunscreen a daily habit, apply it correctly, and reapply often. Your skin will thank you—for years to come.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl…Read More
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she’s a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 Engl… Read More
