9 Places You’re Forgetting to Put Sunscreen
Jazmin Anderson
| 4 min read
Summer means more opportunities for outdoor activities and, at the same time, more ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure. Years of overexposure to the sun can lead to premature wrinkling, skin aging, age spots and an increased risk of skin cancer, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
This time of year, it’s crucial to stay on top of protecting your skin by thoroughly applying sunscreen or wearing protection clothing. Here are some occasionally forgotten places on the body to pay attention to the next time you’re putting on sunscreen.
9 places you're forgetting to put sunscreen
Your scalp and hairline
The skin of your scalp and hairline is easy to forget, since it is mostly covered by hair. But if you have thinner strands or a hairstyle that leaves parts of your scalp exposed, it’s important to protect those areas.
You can protect your scalp from UV rays by using caps, hats or headscarves. However, if you want to keep your hair visible, several brands offer scalp and hair mists with SPF.
Your ears
The ears are a small part of the body, which is why people often miss them when applying sunscreen. Even if you wear a hat, it’s important to apply SPF to this area, as parts of your ears may still be exposed to the sun.
Some may avoid applying sunscreen to the ears because it can get messy. If you are worried about being drenched in UV protectant, try using what is left over on your palms from covering another body part on this area. Solar sticks and powders can also be an option, but be sure to apply a generous amount, as these products apply in thinner layers.
Around your eyes
The skin of the eye is the thinnest on the human body, which is why protecting it from harm is crucial.
Applying traditional sunscreen to this area may result in irritation if sweat washes it into the eye. Eye creams and concealers containing SPF can be a safer, more comfortable solution. Good-quality sunglasses can serve as an added layer of protection for the eyes.
Your lips
The lips can be tricky to apply SPF to, as traditional sunscreens are usually not suitable for them.
Fortunately, there are various lip balms on the market that offer UV protection. Look for one with SPF 15 or higher and be sure to apply it frequently, as it can wash off easily when eating and drinking.
Back of your neck
If you have long hair, you may not think of applying sunscreen to the back of your neck. But if you ever decide to put it up during the day because of the summer heat, you expose that area to sun damage.
The skin on your neck is delicate and prone to showing signs of lost collagen and elasticity. To avoid excluding this area, when applying SPF on the front of the neck, also include the back.
On your forearms
Driving with your windows down during the summer without applying sunscreen to your forearms is a common way to get a sunburn. When you wear short-sleeved tops this summer, make sure you are using SPF.
Back of your hands
The back of the hand is another part of your body that can lose elasticity and collagen due to prolonged sun exposure. They are constantly exposed to the sun during the summer, so you should apply SPF to them before spending time outside.
Back of your knees
This spot is easy to miss when applying sunscreen, but hard to ignore once it’s burned.
Just like with the back of your neck, pay attention to rubbing some sunscreen on the backs of your knees along with the front.
Top of your feet
If you plan to wear sandals or flip-flops this summer, you should apply sunscreen to the tops of your feet. Don’t forget to also apply SPF between your toes to ensure maximum coverage.
Wearing closed shoes after getting a sunburn on the tops of your feet can be painful and challenging. So, protecting them is crucial both for your health and comfort.
Reapply sunscreen often
Frequent sunscreen reapplication is equally important when protecting your skin from the sun as thoroughly applying it in the first place. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recommends reapplying sunscreen every two hours, or even more frequently if you are sweating or swimming. Pick out sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 or higher.
Photo credit: Getty Images
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