THE MOST COMMON MISTAKES WHEN APPLYING SUNSCREEN

Applying sunscreen is the number one thing you can do to protect your skin from the harmful effects of sunlight. But it won’t be enough unless you apply it correctly. Discover below the most common mistakes you make when choosing or applying sunscreen, so that next time, you can make the most out of your sunscreen.

Mistake 1: You choose unsuitable (for you) sunscreen

Apart from personal preference for textures and effect, your main guide to choosing sunscreen, needs to be your photocopy and needs. If you have light skin, for example, or you’re constantly exposed to the sun, you should choose a very high sun protection sunscreen (with SPF 50+). Always consult your dermatologist first.

Mistake 2: You only wear sunscreen in summer

Wearing sunscreen should be a 365-day-thing. Don’t forget that even on a cloudy day, a large part of the UV radiation penetrates the clouds and reaches your skin

Mistake 3: You apply sunscreen when already under the sun

Another, painfully common mistake when it comes to sunscreen use; this way, you literally leave it zero time to be fully functional. For best results, it’s best to apply the sunscreen 20-30’ before you step out in the sun.

Mistake 4: You apply too little…

Only with sufficient quantity, will you be able to protect yourself effectively. Remember that you need:

• 1 tsp for the face
• 2 tbsp for the body

A practical rule of thumb is to consume 1 sunscreen package in about 10 days.

Mistake 5: You tend to neglect difficult spots

Elbows, soles, knee pits, ears, the area behind them and the back of the palm are also exposed to the sun and need protection.

Mistake 6: You only apply it once!

Adults should reapply their sunscreen every 2 hours, whereas for children, that is every 1 hour!

Mistake 7: You use last year’s open sunscreen

However, the protection index of your last year’s sunscreen (if it’s been opened) has now decreased and it won’t be as effective this year.

Mistake 8: You avoid sunscreen to tan

Wearing sunscreen won’t risk your tanning. It will only facilitate and help you do it in a safe, gradual way, reducing any chances of redness, peeling, burn, melanoma and other serious skin diseases.

Even if sunbathing isn’t in your plans this year, there is always a good self-tanner for you to try!