This post is sponsored by Neutrogena, but all opinions are my own.
There’s nothing like spending an adventurous day outdoors. But regardless of the season and location, applying sunscreen is always a must! Looking back, I wish I followed this skincare rule more religiously.
I’ve made plenty of sunscreen mistakes, from product choices to application and everything in between. Read on for 7 of them based on my experience and research from the American Academy of Dermatology Association — and how to apply sunscreen the right way.
Sunscreen Mistake #1: Not using the right product
I’ve tested many sunscreens throughout the years and rarely find one that I truly love. Either it’s the scent or consistency that’s too heavy for me. This made me not apply enough and unmotivated to keep using it.
Upon looking for a lightweight formula, I was thrilled to find the Neutrogena® Invisible Daily™ Defense line of broad-spectrum sunscreens. What sets this line apart is their barely-there feel. The non-greasy formula absorbs fast and protects against UVA and UVB rays. Most notably, it goes on like a dream for all skin tones without leaving any white cast.
For the Face
The Invisible Daily™ Defense Face Serum SPF 60+ is a great primer under makeup. It’s infused with ginger so it works double duty to even skin tone and gives it that glow factor. And since it’s so lightweight and non-comedogenic, I don’t worry about it clogging my pores.
For the Body
The Invisible Daily™ Body Lotion (which comes in SPF 30 and SPF 60+) also has that multitasking factor. The formula hydrates your skin and boosts its natural moisture barrier to leave it looking radiant. Other benefits are similar to the face products: it fights against environmental aggressors like pollution and skin-aging caused by the sun.
The line includes the Invisible Daily™ Defense Spray SPF 60+. It applies easily, especially for those hard-to-reach spots — just be sure to spray it evenly throughout your body.
Another perk about this line is that each product is affordably priced under $15. Since sunscreen is something you need to use a lot of, it’s nice to know you don’t have to spend a fortune and can get it conveniently in the store or online.
Sunscreen Mistake #2: Thinking you don’t need sunscreen because you have olive or darker skin
Darker skin tones tend to have more melanin which can reduce the risk of burning. Although that’s great, it still doesn’t protect from UVA rays (which can cause premature aging) and skin issues.
Also, there’s no obvious marker to show serious sun damage on darker skin. This can be even more dangerous since if skin cancer is detected at a later stage, it may be harder to treat.
The bottom line? No matter your skin tone, you need to wear sunscreen. Every. Single. Day.
Sunscreen Mistake #3: Only applying it when you go outside
As someone who works indoors, I thought sunscreen wasn’t necessary unless I’m outside on a sunny day. But the truth is, UVA rays can penetrate through windows (in homes and cars) which can cause melasma, enlarged pores, and wrinkles.
If you’re going outside, apply sunscreen 15 minutes beforehand since it takes time to sink in. No matter the season — and whether it’s sunny or cloudy — sunscreen is necessary. UV rays can bounce off surfaces like water, sand, grass, pavement, and even snow.
Sunscreen Mistake #4: Not applying enough sunscreen
What’s the correct amount of sunscreen to apply? It depends on the sunscreen and your body size. Typically, an adequate portion is two finger lengths worth for your face and neck, and one shot glass full for your body.
Be sure to read the label on your sunscreen and use enough of it to get the full SPF protection noted on the bottle.
Sunscreen Mistake #5: Not re-applying throughout the day
So, you applied sunscreen in the morning. You’re good to go, right? Not exactly—that would be yet another one of the top sunscreen mistakes. Most formulas need to be reapplied at least every two hours to work efficiently. If you’re, say, swimming or surfing, then you may need to reapply before two hours if it’s washed off in the water.
Sunscreen Mistake #6: Forgetting key areas
Even if you’re a pro at putting sunscreen on your face and body, you might still be missing some key areas. One of the sunscreen mistakes I always made was forgetting to apply on and around your ears, neck, décolletage, arms, brows, hairline, hands, ankles, and feet.
If you do miss key spots, you might see the effect it made on your skin in your 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond. That’s scary to think about but since we can’t change the past, we can do our best moving forward!
Sunscreen Mistake #7: Using expired products
Another sunscreen mistake: using expired sunscreens which defeats its purpose. If there isn’t an expiration date on the bottle and you’re not sure how long you’ve had it, the safest bet is to use a new one instead.
Typically, sunscreens have a shelf life of three years. But read the label to make sure and toss it if you notice a change in the color or consistency.
P.S. Sun protection goes beyond using sunscreen! A hat, sunglasses, umbrella, and clothes all go a long way to help shield you from those golden rays. It’ll give you peace of mind so you can enjoy your days to the fullest.
Shop the Neutrogena® Invisible Daily™ Defense line here:
Neutrogena
Invisible Daily Defense
Face Serum Sunscreen SPF 60
$12 — SHOP NOW
Amazon
Neutrogena
Invisible Daily Defense
Sunscreen Body Lotion SPF 60+
$15 — SHOP NOW
Amazon
Neutrogena
Invisible Daily Defense
Sunscreen Body Spray SPF 60+
$14 — SHOP NOW
Amazon
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