June 22, 2025, 10:14 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Overview
Applying Too Little Sunscreen
One of the most common sunscreen mistakes is using too little. You should use 30 to 35 milliliters for a full-body application. Use the three-finger rule: extend your index, middle, and ring fingers and apply a strip of cream to each. Use this amount for the head and neck, chest and stomach, etc.
Not Rubbing In Thoroughly
Sure, when the sun is blazing, a quick dip in the cool water often helps. But before that, take enough time to apply sunscreen thoroughly, rub it in well, and let it absorb for a short time.
Also interesting: Why Summer Tan Lasts Much Longer with Sunscreen
Sunscreen Mistake – Applying Too Late
Is your skin already burning a little and turning red? Then you’re probably too late! At least a mild sunburn has developed. You should apply sunscreen urgently now (but better, of course, before this point)!
Not Reapplying
How often and at what intervals you should reapply is explained by the sun protection factor (SPF) on the sunscreen bottle. If you used SPF 10, the time you can stay in the sun per day is multiplied by ten: For skin type one (very fair, natural protection 10 minutes), that’s about 100 minutes; for type three–like most Central Europeans–200 minutes, and so on. Always remember that factors like sweating, swimming, or abrasion can reduce UV protection, so it’s better to apply once too often! And: Just because you apply twice doesn’t mean the sun time doubles.
Sunscreen Mistake: Using the Wrong Product
Makeup with SPF does not replace sunscreen during excessive sunbathing. Makeup and day care products with built-in sun protection are OK for everyday use–but during intense sun exposure in midsummer, at the beach, or hiking in the mountains, they are not enough. According to experts, you would need to use seven times the amount of makeup you normally apply to get the full SPF of the product.
No Sunscreen in Winter
It can’t be said often enough! Even in winter, you should always apply sunscreen because, despite low temperatures, the sun has enough power to penetrate the skin barrier. Therefore, adequate protection on sunny days, especially during longer walks and at midday, is important.
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Sunscreen Mistake: Forgetting Important Body Parts
Some body parts are forgotten, like the tops of the feet or the inconspicuous areas on and behind the ears. Many sunbathers also neglect the middle of the back, which is admittedly hard to reach. Our urgent recommendation: Have this area thoroughly and generously rubbed in by your companion, otherwise a painful sunburn threatens. Especially with the new sunscreen sprays, simple spraying is not enough; rubbing in is a must.