8 Common Face Sunscreen Mistakes

Your face is one of the most sun-exposed parts of your body, day in and day out. It’s out there during your commute, near windows, on walks, and during those “quick” errands that turn into an hour outside. So even if you’re diligent about applying SPF, a few small missteps can make your protection less effective than you think.

The good news? Most face sunscreen mistakes are easy to fix once you know what to look for. Ahead, we’re breaking down eight of the most common ones, and how to build a routine that actually works for your skin, your makeup, and your day.

1. Missing Spots

Hairlines, eyelids, the sides of the nose, and along the jawline are easy to skip, especially when you’re in a rush or don’t have a mirror. That’s why layering SPF can be so helpful.

Adding SPF to multiple steps in your routine helps reduce the chances of leaving areas uncovered. For example, starting with an SPF moisturizer like Triple Prep gives you a protective base across your entire face while delivering weightless hydration. From there, an SPF primer like Dewscreen and an SPF skin tint like Protec(tint) adds more layers of protection as a seamless part of your beauty routine. Together, these steps help create more even protection across your face without adding extra effort to your morning.

2. Not Using Enough Sunscreen

This one’s very common! Applying sunscreen every day is essential, but using enough is what gives you the protection you need. A good rule of thumb is a nickel-sized dollop of sunscreen for your face. Anything less can leave skin more exposed than you realize. If you’re using a sunscreen stick, apply generously with multiple passes to make sure you’re covering each area evenly.

3. Not Reapplying

Adding SPF to your morning routine is a great habit, but sunscreen doesn’t last all day. Over time, it can break down from sun exposure, rub off on clothing, or wash away when you sweat or swim.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends reapplying at least every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating, swimming, or toweling off. Sticks, sprays, and powders can make touch-ups easier during the day. And if you’re on the move, choosing a water and sweat resistant option (like PLAY Everyday Face Lotion SPF 50) helps your SPF keep up with your activity level.

4. Using the Wrong Sunscreen

Not every product labeled “SPF” offers the protection your face needs. A face sunscreen should be broad spectrum (meaning it protects against both UVA aging rays and UVB burning rays) and it should be at least SPF 30. Supergoop! face sunscreens check both of these boxes, so you can focus on finding the formula that fits your routine instead of second-guessing your protection.

5. Not Choosing the Right Sunscreen for Your Skin Type

If a sunscreen doesn’t feel comfortable on your skin, you won’t want to wear it as often as you should. If your skin is dry, a hydrating formula like Dewscreen can help your skin feel comfortable and moisturized. If your skin is oily, Mattescreen offers a smooth, matte feel. And if you want something that works well for all skin types, Unseen Sunscreen is a weightless, scentless option that’s non-acnegenic and suitable for sensitive skin.

6. Not Choosing the Right Option for Your Skin Tone

Choosing the right formula can make all the difference. For example, products like Glowscreen and Protec(tint) come in flexible shades so you can choose the one that matches your skin tone. And while some mineral sunscreens may leave a white cast, Mattescreen and Glowscreen Drops are tinted to help minimize that effect.

7. Not Choosing the Right Option for Your Makeup

SPF and makeup don’t have to compete. Using the wrong format, though, can make things tricky. SPF primers like Dewscreen, Glowscreen, Unseen Sunscreen, and Mattescreen are designed to wear smoothly under foundation and concealer. For reapplying over makeup, products like our Unseen Sunscreen Stick and (Re)setting Mineral Powder make it easy to refresh your protection without disrupting your look.

8. Skipping Your Lips

Your lips deserve SPF too! This skin is thin and delicate, so sun protection matters just as much here as it does on the rest of your face. That’s where Glow Lip Gloss SPF 40 comes in. Available in three sweet flavors, this glossy lip balm delivers a high-shine finish and expert sun protection. It’s also infused with shea butter and a peptide complex to lock in moisture and leave lips visibly plumper and fuller.

Face SPF, Made to Fit Your Routine

From moisturizers and primers to powders and lip gloss, Supergoop! has everything you need to keep your face protected in ways that feel easy and intuitive. When SPF shows up in the steps you’re already doing, staying protected becomes second nature — no matter what the day brings.