It’s that time of year again—sunscreen season is officially upon us! With warmer weather encouraging more time outdoors, I realize that taking care of my skin isn’t something I should only think about during summer. Now that I’m in my 40s, I’ve started to really consider what I need to do—or perhaps what I’ve been neglecting—when it comes to skincare.
The top recommendation, hands down, is sunscreen. It’s not just essential for the beach or pool days. Dermatologists emphasize that daily sun exposure accumulates over time, which can have a considerable effect on both skin health and appearance as we age. Dr. Shannon Humphrey, a board-certified dermatologist, points out that “the effects of ultraviolet radiation are cumulative, meaning much of the sun damage we see later in life comes from gradual exposure over decades.”
I’ve always enjoyed spending time outside, even if I didn’t always remember to apply sunscreen regularly when I was younger. But hey, it’s never too late to start! Protecting your skin as you age goes beyond just preventing sunburn. It’s really about limiting the cumulative damage that can lead to issues like wrinkles, dark spots, and even skin cancer.
Experts say that using sunscreen doesn’t have to be a hassle. Consistent use is one of the best practices for skin health, but it’s important to ensure you’re applying it correctly.
Sunscreen mistakes to avoid
First off, higher SPF doesn’t always equal better protection. “One of the biggest myths is that you need the highest SPF number to be effective,” Dr. Humphrey explains. “The best sunscreen is actually the one you’ll apply regularly.” Look for broad-spectrum sunscreens that protect against both UVA and UVB rays, and pick a formula that you’ll enjoy putting on every day.
A common error people make is not applying enough sunscreen. The SPF on the bottle is based on a specific amount being used, and many of us don’t use nearly that much. Dr. Humphrey suggests trying around ¼ teaspoon for your face and about an ounce for your body to get the expected protection.
An obvious but crucial mistake is skipping reapplications. Claire O’Bryan, NP-C and co-founder of Skin Cliquie, mentions that many people think applying sunscreen just once in the morning ensures all-day protection. “Even the best sunscreen can lose its effectiveness over time, especially with sweat, swimming, and even just daily activities,” she warns. Most experts suggest reapplying every two hours when outside, and even more often if you’ve been swimming or sweating. Don’t forget those often-overlooked areas—like your ears, neck, chest, scalp, and backs of your hands.
Lastly, using expired sunscreen is a big no-no. If that bottle has been in your beach bag since last summer, it may not provide the protection you think it does. Checking expiration dates is essential.
So, it can really be simple: select a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher, apply enough sunscreen, reapply as needed, and make it part of your daily routine. Check out some recommended sunscreens below.
