Keeping the skin smooth and free from UV skin damage demands that you apply sunscreen daily and perfectly. However, did you know that applying sunscreen does not mean that it will always be effective? You can still end up with damaged skin due to a number of factors that make it less effective.
Every skin needs an adequate formula that should comprise a minimum four-star UVA protection rating. In addition to this, it also needs to feature an SPF of at least 15. Lastly, it is also vital to check out for the expiry date of the sunscreen you wish to apply.
Failure to apply enough sunscreen has been associated with reduced effectiveness. These problems can result when you accidentally dilute your sunscreen or when you unevenly apply the product. Here are some of the ways you are making your sunscreen less effective.
- Applying Inadequate Sunscreen
Not applying enough sunscreen is one way of making it less effective. Whether it is the cream or spray type of sunscreen, it is vital to ensure that every inch of the skin is covered. When using the sprays, you need to spray every body part for at least six seconds. This will ensure that all parts of the body are fully covered. On the other hand, you need to get about two tablespoons full for the whole body when using the cream. For those using the sticks, you are advised to apply them at least twice including the eyelids and ears.
- Applying Skincare Products on the Sunscreen
This is another mistake most people do without realizing its effects. When using skin care products like moisturiser, you should apply the moisturiser before the sunscreen. This is because when the moisturiser is applied on top of the sunscreen, it is likely to change the properties of the sunscreen.
In addition to this, you should never mix foundation and other makeup with your sunscreen. This is because the other products will dilute the sunscreen SPF, making it less effective.
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- Mixing with Fake Tan
It is with no doubt that fake tan and sunscreen never mix. When you mix a fake tan with sunscreen, you are likely going to experience a number of side effects. For example, the skin will develop wrinkles, and lines, and you also increase your chances of suffering from skin cancer among other complications. These side effects are mainly facilitated by the exposure of your skin to UVA and UVB rays. The effect of UVB rays is likely to result in skin burns, which will greatly affect your skin tone.
- Failing to Reapply
Even after applying the sunscreen perfectly, you are still at risk of damaging the skin if you fail to reapply. The sunscreen needs to be reapplied after every two hours to stay safe from UV rays. It is also important to reapply the product after swimming to keep the skin safe and healthy.
- Missing to Apply Some Parts of the Skin
Do you evenly apply sunscreen to your skin? When applying it to your face, you are likely going to miss certain essential parts. These are the eyelids and the area around the eye. However, both areas are very susceptible to sun damage because they have thin skin.
The other important parts that you are likely to miss are the neck, feet, ears, lips, and hands. To avoid lessening the effectiveness of sunscreen, it is advisable to evenly cover all parts of your body. 7 Places You’re Forgetting To Apply Sunscreen
These are some of the simple mistakes that will make your sunscreen less effective. The sunscreen needs to be applied evenly on all parts of the body. Besides this, it must be applied at least after every two hours, especially when you are constantly working under direct sunlight.
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