5 Places You’re Forgetting to Put Sunscreen

  Summer means the days are longer and the sun is stronger. And because you care about your skin, you are diligent about sunscreen, right? Unfortunately, even if you do make a point to apply broad-spectrum sun protection every day to common areas like your face, arms, and legs, you may be forgetting to apply to some critical spots that often go unprotected.

The Importance of Sun Protection

Sunscreen does more than prevent sunburn; it’s an important tool in the fight against premature aging and maintaining overall health. Chronic exposure to UV rays can accelerate the aging process, leading to fine lines, wrinkles, and changes in texture and pigmentation. Moreover, effective sun protection significantly reduces the risk of developing skin cancers, which can have severe health implications.

When You Might Be Missing

You may know how important sunscreen is and apply it to your face daily, but do you need to apply anywhere else? The answer is a definite “yes.”

Ears

Ears can easily suffer from sunburn easily since they are often just as exposed to direct sunlight as our faces, however it is extremely common to neglect applying sunscreen to the ears. The thin skin on the tops and lobes of your ears is particularly at risk for sun damage. In fact, studies indicate that the ears are the third most common location for non-melanoma skin cancer to occur. Applying sunscreen to this area should be a no-brainer, just remember your ears when you are applying it to your face.

Lips

Lips are extremely sensitive and are often neglected in sun protection routines. The lower lip, in particular, is prone to receiving a high amount of UV exposure, which can lead to serious forms of skin cancer. Protect lips by wearing lip balm or lipstick with SPF and remember to reapply regularly, particularly after drinking or eating.

Eyelids

The skin on your eyelids is among the thinnest on your body and is highly susceptible to UV damage. Skipping sunscreen on your eyelids can lead to burns and contribute to wrinkles and skin cancer. Carefully apply sunscreen around your eyes, avoiding direct contact with the eyes themselves. Wearing UV-protective sunglasses can also help shield this sensitive area.

Neck

Our neck is almost as visible and noticeable as our face, but it is a place we commonly neglect when it comes to skincare and (you guessed it) sun protection. In addition to preventing skin cancer on the neck and chest, using sunscreen protects against texture changes, wrinkles, and sun spots.

Hands and Feet

Even though you may see them all day, it is easy to forget that hands are constantly exposed to the sun. And this goes for feet, too, when we are barefoot or wearing open shoes. Ensure you apply sunscreen to the tops of your hands and feet, including between the fingers and toes. Make sure to re-apply often, especially to your hands, since washing and disinfecting your hands will remove sunscreen.

Tips for Effective Sunscreen Application

Understanding the importance of full-body sun protection is just the first step. Here are some tips to enhance your sunscreen application:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Choose SPF 30 or higher.
• Be generous with application, covering all exposed skin, including the areas often missed.
• Reapply every two hours, or more often if you are swimming, sweating, or wiping skin off with a towel.
• Apply even if it is cloudy. On an overcast day, up to 80% of the sun’s rays still pass through the clouds.

In addition to sunscreen, wear protective clothing, try to hang out in the shade during peak sunlight hours and consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection.

Choose the Best Sunscreen

Investing in the right sun protection is important to give your skin the care and defense it needs. Here are our top picks:

Skinceuticals

Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50 is a mineral sunscreen with no chemical fillers. It combines micro-fine zinc oxide (Z-Cote®) and titanium dioxide to provide broad-spectrum protection. This light, non-irritating formula is also formulated with artemia salina, a plankton extract that helps boost skin’s natural defenses against UV- and heat-induced stress. The silky fluid texture absorbs quickly and leaves skin with a soft, matte finish.

ZO Skin Health Sunscreen + Primer

This multi-action sunscreen from ZO Skin Health protects against the damaging effects from UVA/UVB rays, IR-A rays, and HEV light. This formula doubles as a makeup primer for a smooth matte finish, hydrating the skin and diminishing imperfections. In addition, the exclusive 12-hour, time-release ZOX12® antioxidant complex guards against photodamage for extra protection. Visit our store to protect your skin better today!