The Areas You’re Forgetting to Apply Sunscreen and Why You Need to Remember

Sunscreen is a vital part of our daily skincare routine, especially during the summer months when the sun is at its strongest. Despite our best efforts, there are still some common areas we tend to forget. These areas are just as susceptible to sun damage and need as much protection as the rest of our body. In this article, we will explore these often-missed spots and the reasons why it’s crucial to cover them.

The Importance of Sunscreen

Sun exposure is the leading cause of skin cancer, the most common form of cancer in the United States. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer by the age of 70. Applying sunscreen can reduce the risk of developing skin cancer, prevent premature aging, and protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Scalp and Hairline

One area that is frequently overlooked is the scalp and hairline. Many people assume that their hair will provide enough protection, but the truth is, the scalp can still get burned, particularly along the part line. This can lead to painful burns and increase the risk of skin cancer. To protect this area, you can use a spray sunscreen designed for the scalp or wear a wide-brimmed hat for added coverage.

Another often-missed spot is the back of the neck. Even if you have long hair, this area can be exposed when your hair is tied up. Applying sunscreen to the back of your neck can prevent painful burns and protect this sensitive area from long-term damage.

Ears and Eyelids

The ears are another commonly forgotten area. They are exposed to the sun just as much as your face but are often neglected when applying sunscreen. Make sure to cover both the tops and the backs of your ears to prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer.

Your eyelids are also at risk. Many people avoid applying sunscreen near their eyes due to fear of irritation. However, the skin on your eyelids is thin and delicate, making it more susceptible to damage. Choose a sunscreen specifically formulated for the face, and gently apply it around your eyes, taking care not to get it in your eyes.

Lips and Under the Chin

Your lips can get sunburned too. Using a lip balm with SPF can protect your lips from UV rays and keep them moisturized. Sunburned lips can be painful and increase the risk of skin cancer, so make it a habit to apply SPF lip balm regularly, especially when you’re outdoors.

The area under your chin is often forgotten as well. When applying sunscreen to your face, make sure to extend it down to your neck and under your chin. This area is exposed to the sun, especially when you’re looking up, and needs protection to prevent burns and damage.

Hands and Feet

Our hands are constantly exposed to the sun, whether we’re driving, gardening, or simply walking outside. Applying sunscreen to the tops of your hands can prevent age spots and skin cancer. Make it a habit to reapply sunscreen after washing your hands to ensure continuous protection.

The tops of your feet are another area that often gets overlooked. When you’re wearing sandals or going barefoot, your feet are exposed to the sun and can get burned. Apply sunscreen to the tops of your feet, and remember to reapply if you’re swimming or sweating.

Back of the Knees and Elbows

The back of your knees is a tricky spot to remember, but it’s important to cover it. When you’re sitting or bending your legs, this area is exposed and can get sunburned. Make sure to apply sunscreen to the back of your knees to protect this sensitive skin.

Your elbows are also frequently missed. Whether you’re wearing short sleeves or a sleeveless top, your elbows are exposed to the sun. Apply sunscreen to your elbows and reapply throughout the day, especially if you’re spending a lot of time outdoors.

Scars and Tattoos

If you have scars or tattoos, these areas need extra protection. Scar tissue is more sensitive to UV rays and can burn easily. Tattoos can fade and become damaged with sun exposure. Applying a high SPF sunscreen to these areas can protect them from sun damage and keep your skin healthy.

Sunscreen Reapplication

Applying sunscreen once is not enough. It’s essential to reapply every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating. Many people forget to reapply sunscreen, leaving their skin unprotected and vulnerable to sunburn and damage. Keep a small bottle of sunscreen in your bag or car to remind yourself to reapply throughout the day.

Choosing the Right Sunscreen

Not all sunscreens are created equal. It’s important to choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 for adequate protection. If you have sensitive skin, choose a sunscreen that is fragrance-free and formulated for sensitive skin.

Water-resistant sunscreens are a good choice if you’re going to be swimming or sweating. However, remember that water-resistant does not mean waterproof. You still need to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or immediately after swimming or sweating, to maintain protection.

Protective Clothing and Accessories

In addition to sunscreen, wearing protective clothing can help shield your skin from the sun. Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats can provide extra coverage and reduce the need for sunscreen. Look for clothing with a UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) rating for added protection.

Sunglasses are also important for protecting your eyes from UV rays. Choose sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays to protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them.

Avoiding Peak Sun Hours

The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, try to stay indoors or seek shade during these hours. If you need to be outside, make sure to apply and reapply sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and use accessories like hats and sunglasses to protect yourself.

Additional Sun Protection Tips

In addition to sunscreen, there are other ways to protect your skin from the sun. Seek shade whenever possible, especially during peak sun hours. Use an umbrella or a canopy when you’re at the beach or a picnic. Install window film in your car and home to block UV rays from coming through the glass.

Staying hydrated is also important. Drinking plenty of water can help keep your skin healthy and better able to protect itself from the sun. Eat a diet rich in antioxidants, like fruits and vegetables, to help your skin fight off the damaging effects of UV rays.

The Role of Sunscreen in Anti-Aging

Sunscreen is not just for preventing skin cancer. It also plays a crucial role in keeping your skin looking youthful. Sun exposure can cause premature aging, leading to wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. By protecting your skin from the sun, you can maintain a youthful appearance and keep your skin healthy.

According to a study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine, daily use of sunscreen can slow down the aging process of the skin. The study found that participants who used sunscreen daily had 24% less skin aging compared to those who used it sporadically.

Educating Others About Sun Protection

It’s important to spread awareness about the importance of sun protection. Educate your family and friends about the benefits of sunscreen and the areas they might be forgetting to cover. Encourage children to develop good sun protection habits from a young age to reduce their risk of skin damage and skin cancer later in life.

Consider organizing a sunscreen day at your workplace or community to promote the use of sunscreen and educate others about sun safety. Provide samples of sunscreen and share information about the importance of applying and reapplying sunscreen regularly.

Conclusion

In summary, there are several areas that we often forget to cover when applying sunscreen. These areas, including the scalp, ears, eyelids, lips, hands, and feet, are just as susceptible to sun damage and need protection. By remembering to apply sunscreen to these often-missed spots and reapplying regularly, we can reduce the risk of skin cancer, prevent premature aging, and keep our skin healthy. Make sunscreen a part of your daily routine, and educate others about the importance of sun protection to ensure that everyone can enjoy the sun safely.