The Top 7 SPF Mistakes You’re Probably Making
We have been talking about the importance of SPF and sun protection forever, and we have to say that we have seen a lot of improvement, and clients started to use SPF daily, but just applying SPF like a moisturizer daily is not enough. We love a golden glow, but we want it to come from a facial, not from free radicals breaking down your collagen.
Let’s clear up the biggest mistakes people make with UV radiation protection so you can actually get the benefits from your broad-spectrum sunscreen. Are you making these mistakes?
Avoid these common SPF mistakes and misconceptions
1. Not applying enough sunscreen
Most people apply only a third of what’s needed. You cannot apply it as a moisturizer. You will only get the protection if you apply the correct amount. For your face and neck, you should be using about two finger lengths (we like to say “index finger + middle finger full of sunscreen”).
That might sound like a lot, but believe us, it’s worth it. If it’s easier, apply one finger’s worth first, and after a few minutes, apply another finger’s worth. And as a bonus tip, please don’t skip ears, eyelids, lips, and the tops of hands—these body parts show sun damage first, and you don’t want those to give you away.
2. Only using SPF on sunny days outdoors
We get it—out of sight, out of mind—but believe it or not, you can get even more damage on a cloudy day if you’re not wearing SPF. UV rays are still getting through. Up to 80% of UV radiation can penetrate cloud cover, so sunscreen is a daily thing, not just a sunny-day thing.
3. Rely on the SPF that’s in your makeup
That tinted moisturizer with SPF 15? Not cutting it. As we already mentioned, proper protection means two full fingers’ worth of product. Now, how many people are applying that much foundation? Hopefully not many. It would look way too heavy.
Makeup with SPF is a nice extra, but it won’t give you reliable broad-spectrum coverage. Something is better than nothing, but we always recommend applying a real sunscreen, chemical or mineral, underneath.
Related reading: Does Sunscreen Dry Out Your Skin?
4. Thinking that SPF 50 is twice as effective as SPF 30
SPF doesn’t double in power with higher numbers. SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, while SPF 50 blocks about 98%. So yes, SPF 50/60 offers slightly more sun protection than SPF 30.
However, the difference in protection is not as significant as the numbers might suggest. While the higher spf offers a bit more protection, factors like proper application and re-application are more crucial for effective sun protection than the SPF number itself. But please wear at least SPF 30 on a daily basis.
5. Mixing foundation with SPF
We see this mistake a lot, and please do not mix your sunscreen with your foundation. In fact, do not mix your SPF with any other skincare products.
Do not mix it with your moisturizer or your serums. This includes not mixing it with another SPF. Contrary to belief, the efficacy of your sunscreen is not based on the filter itself but rather the whole formulation. Layering sunscreen is fine, but mixing is not.
6. You forget to reapply sunscreen
Sunscreen isn’t a morning-only ritual. It breaks down in sunlight, sweat, and over time. Re-apply sunscreen every two hours if you’re outdoors (yes, even on a cloudy day), and more often if you’re swimming or sweating.
Even if you’re indoors all day, but leave to meet your friend for an early dinner where it’s still light out (depending on the time of year and where you live), you should reapply. Mineral powder SPF can be an easy way to touch up without messing up your makeup, or a sunscreen spray version.
Read more: The #1 Cause of Skin Aging: Why Sun Protection and SPF Matter
7. Not reading labels and expiration dates for your sunscreen
Yes, sunscreen expires! An old tube that’s been baking in your car glove box isn’t going to protect you. Always check the expiration date and look for “broad spectrum sunscreen” on the label so you’re covered against both UVA (aging) and UVB (burning) rays. But if you are using your sunscreen regularly you should never reach the expiration date, just saying.
Our top SPF recommendations
The best sunscreen is the sunscreen you like. We often hear that “sunscreen is breaking me out”—then try another one. Two that are tried, tested, and loved by our clients are:
Circadia Light Day Sunscreen Broad-Spectrum SPF 37: lightweight, no white cast, won’t break you out.
iS Clinical Extreme Protect Broad-Spectrum SPF 30: a little richer, great for drier skin types.
We always recommend pairing sunscreen with antioxidants in the morning, because Vitamin C serums like GENEX and Super Serum strengthen your defense against UV radiation and help prevent photoaging.
In the evening, Vitamin A (retinal or retinol, like Retinol + Emulsion and daily moisturizer with vitamin A, like AVST 1) helps correct past sun damage and stimulate repair. And remember, SPF alone isn’t enough. Hats, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing are all essential parts of smart sun protection.
Get personalized skincare advice and services at JE’DERM skin atelier!
As summer winds down and fall approaches, it’s the perfect time to correct sun damage. Chemical peels, like our Environ CoolPeel series, are great for resurfacing and evening skin tone. For those looking for a non-peel option, our CoolJet plasma with exosomes helps target pigmentation and texture changes while boosting skin regeneration.
And of course, our Signature Bespoke Facial always works to restore the skin barrier while addressing concerns from sun exposure. Book your appointment and see the difference firsthand!