Sunscreen is a cornerstone of any good skincare routine, but it’s also one of the most misunderstood.
Whether you’re a daily SPF devotee or someone who only remembers it on beach days, we’ve all been guilty of a few sunscreen slip-ups. And unfortunately, those little habits can lead to big consequences for your skin over time, think premature ageing, sun spots, and increased risk of skin cancer.
With it being Sun Awareness Week (12–18 May), now’s the perfect time to refresh your SPF routine and remind ourselves why sun protection matters, especially here in the UK.
Despite our famously grey skies, skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. And it’s on the rise. According to the British Association of Dermatologists, UV exposure, even on cloudy days, is the biggest preventable risk factor. So while SPF is brilliant for protecting your skin's appearance, it also plays a vital role in protecting your health.
Here’s a look at the most common SPF mistakes and simple ways to fix them so that you can stay safely protected all year round.
1. Only Applying SPF on Sunny Days
Let’s start with the biggest myth: You only need sunscreen when the sun is out.
Wrong.
UV rays don’t take a day off when it’s cloudy, cold, or even raining. In fact, up to 80% of UV rays can still reach your skin on an overcast day. And if you spend lots of time near windows or on your phone/laptop, UVA rays (the ones responsible for ageing) can still do damage through glass and even bounce off surfaces indoors.
The fix:
Make SPF a non-negotiable part of your morning routine 365 days a year. Whether you’re walking the dog or working from home, applying sunscreen is the easiest way to protect your skin long-term. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply as needed.
2. Using Too Little (Or Misapplying It)
Ever rubbed in a tiny blob of SPF, thinking it’s “enough to get by”? You’re not alone but unfortunately, that won’t cut it.
Most people apply less than half the recommended amount of sunscreen, which means they’re getting far less protection than what’s promised on the bottle.
The fix:
Use a generous amount: about a teaspoon for your face and neck, and a shot glass for your entire body. Don’t forget easy-to-miss spots like the ears, hairline, back of the neck, tops of the feet, and hands. And make sure you’re applying it as the last step in your skincare routine, before makeup.
Want a no-fuss hack? Try the two-finger rule, use two full finger lengths of SPF for your face and neck combined.
3. Skipping Reapplication (Or Letting Makeup Get in the Way)
Even if you nailed your morning sunscreen routine, the job’s not done. SPF breaks down over time, especially if you’re sweating, swimming, or just going about your day. If you’re outside for longer than a couple of hours, you need to top up.
The issue? Reapplying over makeup can feel like a logistical nightmare.
The fix:
Keep an SPF mist, stick, or powder in your bag for touch-ups. These formulas are designed to go over makeup without ruining your look, and they make it easy to stay protected on the go. If you’re not wearing makeup, simply reapply your original sunscreen every 2–3 hours.
Bonus tip: If you're driving or sitting near a window at work, a midday reapplication can help protect against sneaky UVA rays.
SPF and Skincare: The Bottom Line
No matter your skin type, tone, or routine, SPF is a must-have.
It’s not just about preventing wrinkles or sun spots, it’s about protecting yourself from something much more serious. Skin cancer doesn’t care if you live in a rainy climate or only spend time outside “here and there.” Daily UV exposure adds up over time, and a good sunscreen is one of the easiest, most effective ways to protect your skin.
So as we head into Sun Awareness Week, let this be your reminder:
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Apply sunscreen every single day, not just in summer.
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Use enough of it (more than you think!).
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Reapply if you’re out and about, even if it’s cloudy.
Your skin (and your future self) will thank you.
Looking for an SPF that fits into your skincare routine? Dr Storms Broad Spectrum SPF feels great on the skin, layers well under makeup, and offer serious protection!
