6 Sunscreen Mistakes You Shouldn't Make

By now, you likely know about the dangers of excessive sun exposure and that you should apply sunscreen every day. Even if you are diligent about applying sunscreen, you could be doing it all wrong. Here are six sunscreen mistakes you should avoid:

Not Checking the Expiration Date

Just like most things, sunscreen expires after a while. If you apply sunscreen that is too old, it will not be as effective at protecting your skin. Before you use sunscreen, make sure it is not expired.

Missing Certain Spots

Do not just apply your sunscreen to big areas of your body, like your arms, chest and back. It is equally as important to protect smaller areas of your body, including your ears and lips. 

Only Applying Sunscreen in the Summer

The sun might be the hottest during the summer months, but that does not mean it can't damage your skin during the fall or winter. The sun still comes out during the colder months and can penetrate deep in your skin. No matter what the season is, apply sunscreen before you leave the house.

Not Reapplying Your Sunscreen

Sunscreen wears off after a while, especially if you go in the water. If you plan to spend a significant amount of time in the sun, you need to reapply your sunscreen at least every couple of hours.

Thinking You Are Safe in a Car

Just because you are inside a vehicle, does not mean your skin is protected from the sun. Ultraviolet rays can still penetrate through a car's windows and affect your skin. Even if you plan to spend the day driving around, make sure to apply sunscreen beforehand.

Using Body Sunscreen on Your Face

Body sunscreen is not meant to be used for your face. The skin on your face is more delicate and requires a special sunscreen. If you try to apply a body sunscreen to your face, you could experience irritation and even breakouts.

Thinking Foundation With SPF is Enough

Many foundations include some SPF, but it usually is not enough to protect your skin. If you wear foundation, do not forget to apply a good quality sunscreen under it.

As you can see, applying sunscreen can be trickier than you think. To get the most out of your sunscreen, avoid making these common mistakes. Also, remember to see your dermatologist every year for a skin cancer test.

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