You bought SPF 50. You applied it. So why did you still end up with a weirdly shaped sunburn?
Dermatologists say the problem may not be your sunscreen, it may be how you're using it. From applying too little to forgetting your ears and reapplying too late, these are the sunscreen mistakes that can undermine your protection—and exactly what to do instead.
E! spoke with several board-certified dermatologists to find out the actual right way to apply SPF and their recommendations for every occasion.
This tinted face sunscreen with transparent Zinc Oxide provides broad spectrum SPF 46 protection and helps protect normal and sensitive skin types from UVA and UVB damage without leaving behind residue.
EltaMD UV Restore Face Sunscreen SPF 40 is a lightweight 100% mineral sunscreen that helps protect and improve the appearance of sun-damaged and mature skin.
"The SPF value of a sunscreen is measured based on a density of 2 mg/cm² on the skin. If you’re applying a concentration less than that, then you are not getting the level of protection labeled on the bottle," said Dr. Josh Zeichner. This means about a quarter-sized dollop of a traditional liquid sunscreen.
“Whether you’re talking about sunscreen on the face or on the body, it must be reapplied every two hours, or immediately after heavy sweating or swimming.”
Instantly neutralize the look of skin redness with this green-tinted 100% mineral sunscreen with an easily blendable texture that absorbs quickly into the skin so redness appears softer for a more balanced complexion.
Technically, we should all be applying SPF from head (yes, we mean your scalp) to toe.
"Layering sunscreen products is a great way to ensure you are getting the protection you want. Using a stick sunscreen as your first layer will provide the foundation you need for proper UV protection," Dr. Zeichner says.
You can also apply SPF-infused makeup, like primers or skin tints, atop your sunscreen for an added layer of protection that won’t interfere with your routine.
In terms of body application, a foolproof hack is to first layer on an SPF cream and follow it up with a spray to ensure you don’t miss any spots.
Since sunscreen should ideally be re-applied every two hours, that means you’ll likely have to add an additional layer of SPF over your makeup.
Dr. Zeichner said what we were all thinking, "I find that sunscreen after your makeup can be a challenge.”
The solution? "Setting sprays with SPF are a great option. Alternatively, sunscreen sprays or mists can be essentially airbrushed onto the skin without disrupting the work you spent putting your makeup on." Just be sure not to spray it in your eyes or mouth.
According to Dr. Reszko, this is "A high-SPF sunscreen that offers strong, reliable protection in a smooth, moisturizing texture suitable for both face and body."
This formula is loved by Dr. Zeichner and it's easy to see why! The solid stick format makes it easy to glide on during any summer adventure, keeping you protected against UVA and UVB rays.
Dr. Reszko describes this celebrity-loved SPF as "A lightweight, zinc oxide–based sunscreen that is particularly well suited for acne- and rosacea-prone skin, with a tinted option that helps minimize white cast while calming and protecting sensitive skin."
Colorscience's Sunforgettable Brush-On Sunscreen is also a product that Dr. Mehr recommends. "It's really nice because you can brush it up on your hairline and on your scalp," she said. It protects you from UVA/UVB rays, pollution, blue light, and infrared radiation. It's also available in multiple shades to match different skin tones.
With SPF 50, this lightweight skin tint is an easy way to add an extra layer of sun protection in addition to providing glowy, light coverage.
Need to keep your glam locked in? This delivers an ultra-fine aerosol mist, without any white cast or sticky feel. Use it as the last step in your routine all summer long and keep it in your purse for easy SPF reapplication.
Dr. Mehr recommends this spray sunscreen from EltaMD to protect your scalp. It's lightweight, non-greasy and contains zinc oxide, which provides protection from UVA and UVB rays. Just keep in mind that it may leave a white residue due to the titanium and zinc.
Dr. Reszko suggests this "completely transparent, weightless formula that blends seamlessly into the skin and works especially well under makeup.
Dr. Joshua Zeichner is a board-certified dermatologist, Associate Professor of Dermatology and the Director of Cosmetic & Clinical Research in Dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.
Dr. Anetta Reszko is a board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic Mohs surgeon with over 15 years of experience.
Dr. Neda Mehr is a board-certified dermatologist, who specializes in Non-surgical cosmetic treatments, acne, and acne treatments, correcting dark spots in ethnic skin, anti aging and hair loss.
Your scalp can get sunburned too—these derm-approved sunscreens have you covered.
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