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Don’t Make These 4 Sunscreen Mistakes

Sunscreen is an essential part of preventing sun damage and sunburn on your skin. And while it can certainly help if used correctly, it’s possible you’re making a few mistakes with your sunscreen. Here are a few sunscreen mistakes you need to be sure you avoid.

Not Using Enough Sunscreen

This is one of the most common sunscreen mistakes that people make, and it’s an easy one to avoid! It’s typically recommended to apply two milligrams per square centimeter of skin, while most people typically only apply one. As a result, you may be getting only half of the sun protection that your sunscreen actually offers. But instead of just buying a sunscreen with higher SPF and continuing to under-apply, make sure you apply a few layers of your normal sunscreen to maximize your sun protection. It may seem tedious at first, but your skin will definitely thank you for it later.

Not Applying Sunscreen Every Time You’re Outside

The sun can damage your skin in all kinds of weather conditions. Whether it’s snowing outside, cloudy, or a hot summer day, there’s the potential for sun damage and even sunburn if you’re not careful. This is why applying sunscreen every time you plan on going outside is so important. UVA and UVB rays can penetrate most cloud cover, which means even on overcast days, you’re putting your skin at risk without using sunscreen. So make sure you invest in a facial moisturizer with SPF in it and apply sunscreen to the rest of your body daily if you’re going outside at all.

Not Reapplying Regularly

Sunscreen may protect your skin from the sun, but its effects don’t last forever. In fact, most sunscreens are only effective for a few hours, at best. And that’s not including the sunscreen that washes off of your skin after you get in the water and swim. For the best sun protection, it’s important that you reapply your sunscreen every few hours while you’re spending time outside. That includes while you’re spending time in the shade, as well. If UVA and UVB rays can penetrate cloud cover, they can still harm you through the leaves of a shady tree.

You Don’t Rub Spray Sunscreen In

Contrary to popular belief, it is still important that you rub spray-on sunscreen into your skin. Even though spray-on sunscreen may seem more convenient, that doesn’t mean that a few spritzes will protect your skin from damage or a skin rash from the sun. In many instances, spray-on sunscreen offers uneven coverage if you don’t take care to rub it into your skin afterwards. Not only can this result in some very unflattering tan lines, but it can also mean you still get sunburnt and need to suffer through that. So, whether you’re using a lotion or a spray, make sure you take all the time you need to rub it into your skin properly.

Spending time outside is one of the best parts of summer. Don’t let a few silly sunscreen mistakes keep you from having a great time! If you have questions about sunscreen or want more tips to help prevent sun damaged skin, contact us to set up an appointment at SE Dermatology Specialists today.

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