Special Features
5 Big Sunscreen Mistakes You’re Probably Making
And yes, sunscreen only works if you use it. Check out some of our favorites.
Here’s the thing: you can hoard as much sunscreen as you want and try out all the expensive brands, but if you don’t use it, nothing’s going to change. Although using sunscreen is a relatively straightforward process, many of us choose to skip it — or use it the wrong way. Sun and UV protection is a serious matter; here are the mistakes you might be making:
Common mistakes people make when using sunblock
1. You only use it outdoors
Now that we’re stuck indoors and in front of our gadgets, we’re constantly exposed to blue light rays emitted by these devices. Which is why we’re grateful for Happy Skin’s Rescue Me Sun Gel Primer (SPF 50 PA ++) with Anti-Blue Light Technology. Not only does it have the ability to ward off UVA, UVB, and Blue Light rays, it’s non-sticky, which is perfect for those hot, humid days in front of the screen.
2. You’re not putting enough
It doesn’t matter how high the SPF is, if you aren’t putting enough sunblock, you aren’t getting the full benefits. You need to slather it on, people! A good rule of thumb for sunscreen is putting more than you think you need. If you think you’ve got too much on, it’s probably enough.
3. You don’t reapply
Here’s the thing: after two hours of exposure, you’ll need to reapply your sunscreen. And you’ll need to do it even sooner if you’ve been swimming or sweating heavily. Your best solution? Sunscreen that’s easy to apply — like a mist or spray. Belo Sunexpert Transparent Mist (SPF 50 and PA +++) is non-sticky, quick-drying and sprays at any angle while the Belo Sunexpert Ultragentle Sheer Spray (SPF 50 and PA +++) is your best bet if you’ve got the kids in tow. And another bonus for the mommies: You can skip the foundation for your Zoom meetings because they have tinted sunscreen.
4. You don’t use it all the time
It’s easy to use sunblock when it’s already part of your regimen. The folks at Cetaphil make it easy with Cetaphil Sun (SPF 50+ and UVA and UVB protection), a lightweight, dermatologically tested and highly water-resistant face and body sunscreen suitable for sensitive skin. It fits in seamlessly with all your fave Cetaphil bath and skin care products so adding an extra step to your skincare routine should be no biggie!
5. SPF is all you look at
If you don’t see both UVA and UVB on your sunscreen bottle, then you probably aren’t getting adequate protection. UVB rays burn and cause cancer while UVA rays penetrate more deeply, could cause skin cancer and hasten skin aging. Our top tip? Check out NIVEA Sun products. They provide immediate UVA/UVB protection against sunburn and premature skin aging!
Be kinder to your skin and do your best to minimize exposure to UV rays by using sunscreen properly. All it takes is just a few minutes of slathering and you’re on your way to fun day out in the sun — or while we’re still in quarantine — on Zoom.
