People are being warned they could be applying sunscreen incorrectly just as warmer weather makes sun protection more important than ever. With temperatures rising and more time being spent outdoors, skincare experts say common mistakes - from using too little product to missing key areas - could be leaving skin exposed to damage without people even realising it.
The 'Dot Technique' for Even Coverage
Jessica Maxcy from Eight Saints Skincare says sunscreen is one of the most important steps in any daily routine, but only works properly when applied correctly. She said: “SPF is one of the best things you can do for your skin every day, but many people are not getting the full protection they think they are. The problem is often not that people are skipping sunscreen completely. It is that they are using too little, applying it unevenly, or missing areas like the hairline, ears, eyelids and neck.”
Jessica recommends a straightforward method known as the 'dot technique' to help ensure even coverage. “Instead of putting a blob of sunscreen on one part of your face and trying to spread it everywhere, dot it across the face first,” she explained. “Place small dots on the forehead, cheeks, nose, chin, jawline, hairline, ears and neck before blending. This helps you see where the product is going and reduces the chance of missing patches.”
She added: “You do not need to make it complicated. The goal is to spread the sunscreen across the face before blending, so you are not relying on one blob to cover everything.” The technique can also act as a visual reminder for areas that are often overlooked. “Most people naturally cover the cheeks, nose and forehead. Dotting the product around those areas first is a good visual reminder.”
Common Sunscreen Mistakes to Avoid
Experts say there are several key errors people make when applying SPF, many of which reduce its effectiveness. The top five common mistakes are:
1. Not Using Enough
Jessica warns that many people treat sunscreen like moisturiser, using too small an amount. “Most people use far less sunscreen than they need,” she said. “Sunscreen is tested using a proper amount of product. If you use much less, you are unlikely to get the SPF level stated on the label.” She advises applying a generous layer to both the face and neck. “If you are applying a pea-sized amount, that is not enough for your face and neck. It might feel like a lot at first, but if you want proper protection, you need enough product to create an even layer.”
2. Only Wearing SPF in Hot Weather
Another common misconception is that sunscreen is only needed on hot or sunny days. “Heat and UV are not the same thing. You can still be exposed to UV when the weather feels mild, when it is cloudy, or when you are just walking around town,” Jessica explained. She added that regular use is especially important for preventing premature ageing, as UVA rays are linked to skin damage and collagen breakdown.
3. Missing the Edges of the Face
Even those who apply SPF daily often forget the edges of the face. “These areas are easy to miss because people focus on the centre of the face. But if they are exposed, they need protection too,” she said. She highlighted the neck as a commonly neglected area. “People often spend money on skincare for the face but stop at the jawline. The neck is exposed to the same UV and can show sun damage and ageing just as clearly.”
4. Mixing SPF with Other Products
Mixing sunscreen with foundation or moisturiser can also reduce its effectiveness. “Sunscreen is designed to form an even protective film on the skin. When you dilute it or mix it with other products, you can disrupt that film and end up with patchy protection,” Jessica said. Instead, she recommends applying SPF as a separate step after skincare, allowing it to settle before adding makeup. “SPF in makeup is better than nothing, but most people do not apply enough foundation to get the protection written on the label. You still need a dedicated sunscreen.”
5. Forgetting to Reapply
Applying sunscreen once in the morning may not be enough, particularly during long periods outdoors. “Sunscreen can be affected by sweat, touching your face, makeup, clothing, swimming and time,” Jessica said. She advised reapplying throughout the day, especially during holidays, festivals, long walks or time spent in direct sunlight.
With summer approaching, experts are urging people to review how they apply sunscreen to ensure they are getting the level of protection they expect. Jessica Maxcy is a skincare expert and brand manager at Eight Saints Skincare.
