While Skin Cancer Awareness Month in May serves as a reminder of the importance of sun protection, safeguarding your skin shouldn’t be limited to a single month. As a person with melanin-rich skin, finding the right sunscreen is crucial for maintaining healthy, glowing skin year-round. Dr. Geeta Yadav, a board-certified dermatologist, shares expert insights on sunscreens myths and recommendations for melanin-rich skin.
5 Sunscreen Mistakes to Avoid
We all know sunscreen is a daily must, but it’s easy to slip up without realizing it. These common mistakes could be quietly sabotaging your skin’s health and glow. Let’s clear them up:
1. Skipping Sunscreen on Cloudy Days
Many people assume if the sun isn’t shining, there’s no need for protection. The truth is, up to 80% of UV rays still penetrate clouds and reach your skin. Consistent, daily protection is essential — rain or shine.
Cloudy days don’t give your skin a break from UV damage. Make applying sunscreen as routine as brushing your teeth, no matter the forecast.
2. Not Using Enough Product
A dab won’t do the job. Most people apply less than half the recommended amount of sunscreen. For your face and neck alone, you need about a nickel-sized dollop.
Under-applying dramatically reduces protection. Be generous — your future skin will thank you.
3. Forgetting Certain Areas
It’s easy to overlook spots like your ears, back of your neck, hairline, and the tops of your hands. These areas age faster and are common sites for sun damage.
When applying sunscreen, treat these areas with as much care as your cheeks and forehead. Think full coverage, not just a quick swipe.
4. Relying Only on SPF in Makeup
While SPF-infused makeup is helpful, it’s rarely enough on its own. Most people don’t apply foundation or setting powder in the thick, even layer needed for full protection.
Always use a dedicated sunscreen first, then layer your makeup on top. Think of SPF makeup as a bonus, not your only line of defense.
5. Not Reapplying Throughout the Day
One morning application won’t last until bedtime. Sunscreen wears off due to sweat, oil, touching your face, and UV exposure itself.
Aim to reapply every two hours if you’re outdoors — or at least once in the afternoon if you’re mostly inside. Spray and powder sunscreens make touch-ups easier without messing up your makeup.
Choosing the Best Sunscreen for Your Skin
When selecting sunscreen for melanin-rich skin, consider the following factors:
SPF Protection: Opt for a sunscreen with broad-spectrum SPF protection of at least 30 to guard against both UVA and UVB rays.
Formulation: Choose a sunscreen that is lightweight, non-greasy, and specifically formulated for dark skin to avoid a white cast.
Recommended Sunscreen for Melanin-Rich Skin
Consider incorporating EXTRASHADE Daily Hydrating Sunscreen Lotion into your daily skincare routine. Formulated with melanin-rich skin in mind, this sunscreen provides broad-spectrum protection while hydrating and nourishing the skin. Its lightweight, non-greasy formula ensures comfortable wear throughout the day, making it an ideal choice for daily sun protection.
Conclusion
Don’t wait until Skin Cancer Awareness Month to prioritize sun protection. By making sunscreen a daily habit and choosing the right formulation for your skin, you can effectively safeguard your skin against sun damage and maintain a healthy, radiant complexion year-round.