Sunscreen is your skin’s first line of defense against the sun, shielding it from tanning, pigmentation, burns, and premature ageing. It’s not just a summer essential it’s a daily must have. But even the most powerful SPF can fall short if you're not using it correctly.
If your skin still feels sun-damaged despite regular sunscreen use, you might be making some common mistakes without even realizing it. Here’s how to fix them.
1. You’re not applying enough
For sunscreen to actually protect your skin, you need to use the right amount at least two fingers' worth for the face and neck. Anything less can leave parts of your skin exposed, leading to tanning and sunburn even when you’ve applied SPF.
2. You apply it too late
Sunscreen isn’t instant. It needs around 15–20 minutes to properly settle into your skin and activate. If you apply it just before stepping outside, your skin may still be vulnerable to UV rays.
3. You forget to reapply
This is one of the most common mistakes. Sunscreen wears off throughout the day especially if you’re sweating, touching your face, or spending time outdoors. To keep your skin protected, reapply your sunscreen every two hours without fail. If you’re wearing makeup, use a damp beauty sponge to dab SPF over your face gently this avoids smudging while refreshing protection.
4. You skip sunscreen on cloudy or cold days
UV rays don’t take a break when the weather does. Even on overcast or chilly days, they penetrate clouds and affect your skin. Consistent daily use of sunscreen no matter the season is key to maintaining long-term skin health. So whether it's sunny, rainy, or foggy, don’t skip your SPF.
5. You’re not choosing the right SPF level
SPF isn’t just a number it indicates how much protection your sunscreen provides. SPF 30 blocks around 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%.
For everyday use, SPF 30 is sufficient for most Indian skin types. But if you’re spending long hours outdoors, swimming, hiking, or playing sports SPF 50 offers stronger, longer-lasting protection.
6. You rely only on makeup with SPF
Makeup with built-in SPF might offer minimal protection but it’s never enough on its own. Always apply a proper sunscreen as your base before layering on any makeup. This ensures full coverage and better protection. To reapply over makeup, press sunscreen into the skin using a sponge or beauty blender instead of rubbing it keeps your makeup intact while restoring SPF.
7. You miss spots like your neck and ears
Sunscreen isn’t just for your face. Areas like your neck, ears, hands, and even the back of your knees are often neglected but they’re just as exposed to the sun. Always extend your application to these parts to avoid uneven tanning or sunburn.
8. You’re using expired sunscreen
Sunscreen loses its effectiveness after expiration. Using an old formula can not only reduce protection but also irritate the skin. Always check the label and shelf life, especially if the product has been sitting unused for a while.
How to choose the right sunscreen for your skin
Not all sunscreens are made the same and the right formula depends on your skin type.
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Oily or acne-prone skin: Look for lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreens with ingredients like Niacinamide to help regulate oil.
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Dry skin: Choose a hydrating formula with Hyaluronic Acid, Panthenol, or Peptides to boost moisture and prevent flakiness.
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Sensitive skin: Avoid alcohol, fragrance, and harsh sulfates that can cause redness or irritation. Opt for barrier-protective and microbiome-friendly formulas instead.
Make your sunscreen work smarter
Even the most advanced sunscreen won’t protect your skin if applied incorrectly. Small slips not applying enough, skipping reapplication, or ignoring certain areas can reduce your SPF’s effectiveness and leave your skin vulnerable.
Use sunscreen the right way and choose a formula that fits your skin’s needs. Daily, consistent sun protection helps prevent not just tanning and pigmentation, but long-term issues like sensitivity, uneven tone, and premature ageing.
Explore microbiome-friendly sunscreen designed to protect, calm, and strengthen sensitive skin even under daily sun exposure.