The Biggest Mistakes People Make With Sunscreen, According To Dermatologists
August 08, 2024BruceDayneIt’s been proved that properly wearing sunscreen can help prevent sunburn, premature aging and skin cancer. But there are common mistakes that many of us make when applying sunscreen that can minimize its effectiveness — and an alarming number of young adults doubt the benefits of sunscreen altogether.
Experts say Generation Z tends to follow misinformation about sunscreen and skin cancer on TikTok and other social media platforms, according to The New York Times. And a survey from the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) showed that adults ages 18-26 are tanning at increased rates and therefore are at risk for skin cancer.
“I’m a [dermatologic] surgeon and cut out skin cancer every day,” Dr. Anthony Rossi, a board-certified dermatologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, told HuffPost.
“We see so [much] skin cancer … [especially on] people who are tanning,” he added. “We don’t want that to happen to the next generation.”
Because of the pervasive sun safety myths circulating on social media, it’s more important than ever to be aware of the benefits of sunscreen and how to correctly apply it. We talked to dermatologists about the one thing they never do when putting on sunscreen — and what they do instead. Read on for their tips.
Using Sunscreen After It’s Expired
“I ensure the sunscreen hasn’t expired before use, as its protective qualities diminish past its expiration,” explained Dr. Danilo C. Del Campo, a board-certified dermatologist at the Chicago Skin Clinic. Using expired sunscreen can expose the skin to “damaging effects of the sun’s UV radiation, which are known causes of skin cancer, accelerated aging and sunburns.”
Not all sunscreens include an expiration date on the bottle. For those that don’t, remember that sunscreen is considered expired three years after it’s purchased, according to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
Inhaling Spray Sunscreen
When you’re spraying sunscreen on your body and face, you may end up accidentally breathing in aerosols. Two dermatologists said they do whatever they can to avoid this.
“[Spray] sunscreens are not made to be inhaled,” Rossi said. If you do breath them in, they can cause irritation and asthma flare-ups.
“The safety of the ingredients in spray sunscreens was only tested on application of the skin,” added Dr. Anne Chapas, a board-certified dermatologist and fellow of the AAD. “We do not know [all] the effects of these ingredients on lung tissue through inhalation.“
For this reason, if you are going to use spray sunscreen, she recommends avoiding applying it directly on the face. Instead, spray onto your hands first and then rub in.
You also want to make sure you apply an even coat on your body, Rossi advised. Spray until your skin glistens and rub in thoroughly, according to the AAD. For reference, a 6-ounce bottle of spray sunscreen contains about six applications.
Carol Yepes via Getty Images
Combining Sunscreen And Makeup
“I never mix my sunscreen with my makeup because the efficacy of sunscreen is directly correlated with an even application of the sunscreen ingredients across the skin’s surface,” said Dr. Whitney Bowe, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dr. Whitney Bowe Beauty. “When you disrupt the homogeneity of the sunscreen by blending it with other cosmetic products, it can leave you with gaps in protection.”
While some videos on social media suggest mixing sunscreen and makeup together in the palm of your hand to make a “smoothie,” Bowe doesn’t recommend this. Instead, apply sunscreen as its own layer on the skin, wait at least 30 seconds for it to absorb and then put makeup on top of that.
Not Applying Sunscreen As Part Of Your Daily Morning Routine
“I never skip putting on sunscreen, rain or shine, indoor or outdoor, summer or winter,” said Dr. Heather D. Rogers, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Doctor Rogers Skin Care. “I do it every day as part of my morning skin care routine of splashing my face with water [and] applying a vitamin C serum, moisturizer and then sunscreen.”
Even on an overcast day, UV radiation can pass through the clouds and cause skin damage, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Certain materials like snow, water and sand can reflect UV radiation and increase your chance of sunburn. And even when you’re indoors, UVA can come through windows, Rogers explained.
“We are creatures of habits and applying the first layer of protection as part of your morning routine [also] helps you be prepared when your indoor day becomes an outdoor day,” she said. “Find one you like and use it every morning.”
Not Putting On Enough Sunscreen Because It Doesn’t ‘Look Or Feel Good’ On The Skin
“I choose formulations that feel good on the skin and are good for the skin [so] that there is no excuse not to use them,” said Dr. Ivy Lee, a board-certified dermatologist and chair of the Augmented Intelligence Committee at the AAD.
She advocates for “multitasking sunscreens” that include moisturizer and antioxidants and protect against ultraviolet and high-energy visible light. She also prefers mineral sunscreens, which contain zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or both. These are known for being gentler on sensitive skin than some of the chemical sunscreens, according to WebMD. Look for sunscreens labeled as broad-spectrum (protects against both UVA and UVB radiation) and UPF 30+.
“Exploring various sunscreens to find one that meets your preferences in feel, scent and texture is … beneficial,” Del Campo said. “There’s definitely a suitable option for everyone.”
In terms of amount and frequency, the AAD recommends that most adults use about 1 ounce (about a shot glass) of sunscreen to cover their body and reapply every two hours if outdoors or after sweating or swimming.
A Few Other Common Mistakes To Avoid
Don’t forget to put sunscreen on all body parts that are exposed to the sun, including the tops of your feet, your ears and the top of your head, according to the AAD.
“You [also] need SPF on the lips and on the outside of [them],” Rossi said. “I cut out a lot of skin cancers on the bottom of the lip.”
In addition to applying sunscreen, there are other steps you should take to protect your skin from sun damage.
“Seek shade, wear sun protective clothing including hats, sunglasses and long sleeves, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun during the hottest hours of the day,” Rogers suggested.
She said this doesn’t mean you need to stay inside, but just be smart about the time you spend outdoors.
“Get [outside] in the morning or evening, bring an umbrella with you to the beach, and never just lie in the sun for the sake of getting tan,” she added.
Most importantly, don’t underestimate the value of sunscreen and fall victim to mistruths about it on social media.
“Daily sunscreen is the most effective way to prevent aging, sun damage and skin cancer,” Lee said. “This simple habit [helps with] … wrinkles, even skin tone, glow, hydration and suppleness of the skin in the short term and [lowers] skin cancer risk in the long term.”
Looking for a new sunscreen? Check out reviewers’ favorite brands.
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HuffPost Readers' Favorite Mineral Sunscreens
Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Mineral Milk Sunscreen SPF 30
Alongside our readers, both Pamela Anderson and Hailey Bieber are fans of Summer Fridays’ ShadeDrops SPF 30 mineral sunscreen. It's a great option for anyone looking for a lightweight, naturally radiant finish that protects from UV rays while also providing nourishing ingredients to the skin. Made with vegan and cruelty-free ingredients, this sunscreen is formulated with zinc oxide, squalane, chamomile and an antioxidant blend of vitamin E and ethyl ferulate. They work together to shield the skin from sun damage and to hydrate, soften and smooth the skin and protect against further damage from free radicals.
Supergoop! Mineral Sheer Screen SPF 30
Dr. Brendan Camp, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, recommended this reader-fave screenie. "This is a 100% mineral sunscreen product that offers SPF 30 protection," Camp said. "The labeling also includes information about protection from UVA radiation, PA (protection grade of UVA), which many sunscreens do not report." It also shields the skin from blue light. It's completely sheer so you don't have to worry about a white cast and has a lightweight finish that won't weigh your skin down.
Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face mineral sunscreen SPF 50
"This lightweight, non-greasy product provides SPF 50 protection and contains zinc oxide as the active ingredient," Camp said. It's specially formulated with antioxidants to be water-resistant, is naturally sourced and dries down quickly without leaving a greasy finish.
HuffPost Readers' Favorite Chemical Sunscreens
Supergoop! Glow Screen SPF 40
High on my personal list of sunscreen essentials is Supergoop! Glow Screen, and I'm thrilled to see it is one of our readers' top picks from our chemical sunscreen story. It's what I reach for when I want a hint of tint and shimmer. It's basically your skin, but better — plus sun protection. It's available in four different shades and has a slightly heavier finish than other chemical sunscreens, in part because of the tint component. But since it essentially replaces foundation for me, I don't mind that it isn't as lightweight as others. The pearlescent finish gives skin an immediate glow while hyaluronic acid and niacinamide hydrate, nurture and help to diminish the look of common signs of aging. This was also a top reader pick from our article featuring
sunscreens with anti-aging ingredients!SkinCeuticals Daily Brightening UV Defense sunscreen
Along with the rest of the SkinCeuticals line, HuffPost readers swarm to this popular, luxurious sunscreen. Not only does the chemical formulation protect against sun damage, it claims to actively work to diminish the look of discoloration, helping to brighten and even out skin tone thanks to ingredients like tranexamic acid and niacinamide. Reflective pigments help to give the skin an immediate glow, making it ideal for someone looking to perk up their skin quickly and visibly. This was also a top pick from our article about the best sunscreens with anti-aging ingredients!
Beauty of Joseon probiotic SPF 50+
If you're a fan of Korean beauty products, then you're going to want to stock up on this gorgeous sunscreen. It's wildly popular among the skin care set, with everyone from beauty lovers to influencers touting its skin-enhancing abilities. It's my go-to daily sunscreen — primarily because it perfectly splits the difference between a fluid and a cream — and I'm thrilled to see it top the chemical sunscreen list of faves. It has a bit more grip than a fluid finish but doesn't feel as heavy or oily as a full-on cream or moisturizer. I rarely get more compliments than when I head out wearing this sunscreen and a touch of concealer. As with all Korean beauty products, it's important to remember to only purchase via reputable sites like Stylevana. It does take about two to three weeks to arrive, so I usually order two at a time to tide me over, but each tube lasts around three months, making it worth the already low price and shipping wait time.
HuffPost Readers' Favorite Korean And Japanese Beauty Sunscreens
Round Lab moisturizing birch juice sun cream
According to Flores' previous article on Korean and Japanese beauty sunscreens, "this hydrating daily sun cream by Round Lab is lightweight, non-greasy and fast-absorbing and doesn't leave a white cast. The broad-spectrum SPF 50 formula feels cool and refreshing on the skin and contains both birch tree sap and hyaluronic acid to help keep skin moisturized throughout the day." It was one of HuffPost readers' top three picks and with good reason!
Biore UV Aqua Rich Sunscreen Water Essence facial sunscreen
Shopping writer Tessa Flores pointed out in previous coverage that, "A prime example of water-based Japanese sunscreens, Bioré UV's Aqua Rich SPF 50 sun essence is a feather-light and oil-free gel formula that feels virtually undetectable on the skin and is compatible with all skin types including those who are acne-prone. It's infused with hyaluronic acid for lasting hydration and breathable protection that layers seamlessly under makeup." No wonder HuffPost readers couldn't get enough.
Isntree hyaluronic acid watery sun gel
Both Flores and myself have covered this reader-beloved sunscreen in the past. It's great for people with dry skin and anyone who loves a dewy (not greasy) finish. I love that is white-cast-free and has hydrating ingredients including eight different types of hyaluronic acid to help strengthen the moisture barrier and keep skin hydrated all day long. It boasts a hypoallergenic formula that is great for those with sensitive or compromised skin, and has been a popular pick among K-beauty fans for many years.
HuffPost Readers' Favorite Water-Resistant Sunscreens
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk sunscreen SPF 60
If you're as big a fan of French pharmacy beauty products as I am (and according to our data, you are), try La Roche-Posay's various sunscreens. In my opinion, their Anthelios melt-in sunscreen is by far their most exciting formulation. This super lightweight SPF truly does melt into the skin, leaving it dewy, natural-looking and non-greasy while providing a whopping SPF 100 protection that is also water-resistant. Your skin will love it.
SkinCeuticals Physical Fusion UV Defense mineral sunscreen
Skin care devotees will likely be familiar with SkinCeuticals' line of high-end serums and creams, but did you know that its sun protection products are just as effective and good for your skin? You likely do now, because this was one of our bestselling water-resistant sunscreens. This has a subtle tint that gives skin a radiant glow without leaving behind a thick white cast or oily residue. It's a surprisingly lightweight mineral formula that is water-resistant for up to 40 minutes and can also help to defend skin against environmental stressors.
Vacation Classic Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30 travel size three-pack
I can't get enough of the entire Vacation lineup, and it was the clear frontrunner for readers looking for water-resistant sunscreen. It has a really clean, lightweight finish that disappears into the skin leaving behind a delicious coconut-forward summery scent. It is easy to rub into skin and is water-resistant, making it ideal for all manner of summertime activities. It's also packed with skin-friendly ingredients like vitamin E, niacinamide, banana extract, aloe vera and coconut oil that help to soothe, soften and nourish skin. You can't go wrong with a three-pack of travel sized options from Amazon, just pop one in each of your bags and in your bathroom cabinet for easy access. Or you can purchase them individually and full-size at Ulta.
HuffPost Readers' Favorite Sunscreens At Amazon
Sun Bum Original SPF 50 sunscreen
You can't go wrong with sunscreen classic, Sun Bum — no wonder it's a HuffPost readers' top pick at Amazon. This moisturizing sunscreen lotion is clearly a crowd favorite. It's oxybenzone-, octinoxate- and oil-free, plus water-resistant.
Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen spf 40
This cult-favorite and HP reader-favorite sunscreen from Supergoop has a clear, lightweight and unscented formula so you don't have to deal with an irritating white cast. It's also oil-free and great for anyone who might have sensitive or acne-prone skin.
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch sunscreen
Neutrogena's Ultra Sheer sunscreen is lightweight and fast-absorbing, making it especially ideal for use on hot summer days. It even provides up to 80 minutes of water resistance — no wonder it's a popular reader go-to.
HuffPost Readers' Favorite Sunscreens For Mature Skin
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Ultra-Light sunscreen SPF 50
According to Dr. Marisa Garshick, a board-certified dermatologist at MCDS Dermatology, "This ultralight sunscreen fluid is mineral-based, containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, but also offers a fast-absorbing, lightweight texture. It is easy to apply and also offers antioxidant protection." It's also one of HuffPost readers' favorite options for mature skin.
CeraVe hydrating mineral sunscreen SPF 50
Garshick noted that "[t]his hydrating formulation contains zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to provide broad-spectrum coverage. In addition, it contains hyaluronic acid to help provide moisture, ceramides to help support the skin’s natural barrier as well as niacinamide which can soothe the skin. This mineral sunscreen is fragrance- and paraben-free making it a good option even for those with dry or sensitive skin." Readers agree!
La Roche Posay Anthelios XL 50 Anti-Shine Dry Touch gel-cream SPF 50+
Dr. Corey L. Hartman, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Skin Wellness Dermatology in Birmingham, Alabama personally uses this sunscreen. He says it "applies easily and doesn't leave the skin feeling extra shiny or sticky. It also doesn't leave a white cast on my skin." It absorbs quickly and has soothing antioxidant ingredients that HuffPost readers can't get enough of.
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