Sunscreen Mistakes You Should Avoid

Sunscreen is the most important step of your morning routine, especially in a climate like Puerto Rico's. But owning it isn't enough: how you use it makes a big difference. These are the most common mistakes and how to avoid them.

1. Using too little

The SPF on the label is measured with a generous amount. For face and neck, a handy guideline is the two-finger rule: two lines of product along your index and middle fingers. Use less, and you get less protection.

2. Not reapplying

Sunscreen wears off with sweat, rubbing and time. If you're outdoors, reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating a lot. Over makeup, stick or spray sunscreens make touch-ups easier.

3. Relying only on your makeup's SPF

Foundation with SPF is a nice bonus, but nobody applies enough foundation to get that protection. Always wear your sunscreen underneath. Not sure about the order? Read sunscreen, moisturizer, primer and foundation: what goes first.

4. Only wearing it at the beach or when it's sunny

UV rays pass through clouds and, partly, through windows. Make sunscreen a daily habit, rain or shine, even if you work indoors near windows.

5. Missing spots

The most forgotten: ears, neck, the back of the neck, chest, hairline, eyelids and the backs of your hands. Lips need protection too: look for a balm with SPF.

6. Applying it right before heading out

Give it a few minutes to settle before makeup or sun exposure. If you wear makeup, let it absorb so your foundation doesn't slide.

7. Choosing a sunscreen you don't enjoy wearing

The best sunscreen is the one you'll use every day. If it leaves a white cast or feels greasy, you'll find excuses to skip it. Options:

• Oily skin: gels, fluids or mattifying sticks.
• Dry skin: cream formulas with hydrating ingredients.
• For touch-ups: clear sticks or sprays.

Korean sunscreens are known for their lightweight textures. More in daily sunscreen in Puerto Rico.

8. Using expired sunscreen

Check the expiration date and don't leave it in a hot car: heat can break down the formula.

9. Not considering the rest of your routine

If you use retinol, exfoliants or vitamin C, sunscreen matters even more. We cover this in hyaluronic acid vs. niacinamide and in our guide to choosing a face cleanser, because removing sunscreen properly at night counts too.

10. Not removing it at night

Sunscreens, especially water-resistant ones, come off best with a double cleanse: first a balm or oil, then your regular cleanser.

How to apply it right, step by step

1. After your moisturizer, wait a minute.
2. Measure out two finger-lengths.
3. Dot it on your forehead, cheeks, nose, chin and neck.
4. Spread without over-rubbing, including ears and hairline.
5. Wait a few minutes before makeup.

Shop it at BeautyRosee

SPF 50 sunscreens in gel, stick and spray, including Korean formulas, in skincare and Korean skincare. To remove it, cleansing balms from Oz Lab and Kevin & Coco.

FAQ

How much sunscreen should I use on my face?

About two lines of product along two fingers for face and neck.

How often should I reapply?

Every two hours outdoors and after swimming or sweating.

Does foundation with SPF count?

As a bonus, but it doesn't replace sunscreen.

Do I need sunscreen on cloudy days?

Yes. UV rays pass through clouds.

Keep reading

• Skincare Guide: Your Complete Routine, Explained
• How to choose a face cleanser
• Toner pads: what they are and how to use them