How to Give Your Ears the Sun Protection They Need

When you’re putting on sunscreen, your face, arms, and legs probably get plenty of love. But your ears? They deserve just as much care. Even though they’re right there in the sun, they’re easy to overlook. But a little extra attention can make a big difference.

Ahead, you’ll learn why your ears need protection, how to shield them properly, and the easiest ways to make sure they’re covered every time you apply SPF.

Why Your Ears Need Sunscreen

Your ears are among the first places the sun reaches, and they deserve daily SPF. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, about 7% of head and neck melanomas are found on the ears. That’s a lot for an area so small.

The tricky part? Ears have plenty of nooks and crannies that make it easy to miss spots. The tops, backs, and edges need the same thorough coverage you’d give your nose or cheeks. And yes, that includes the bit right behind your ears that sun can hit when your hair shifts or blows back.

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and your ears are no exception. Once you’ve covered them properly, keep that protection going strong by reapplying at least every two hours, and more often if you’re sweating or swimming.

3 Sunscreens That Are Ideal for Your Ears

Sunscreen sticks are a game-changer for ear protection. They let you target your entire ear without any spills, drips, or mess.

At Supergoop! we have a whole collection easy-to-use sunscreen sticks that make it simple to give your ears the sun protection they deserve.

PLAY Everyday Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

We put our fan-favorite PLAY Everyday Lotion into a stick that’s perfect for small, often-missed spots. The mess-free, teardrop shape hugs the curves of your ear for precise coverage. It’s weightless and non-greasy, so you don’t have to worry about sticky hair or residue. It blends in clear, smells amazing, and is water- and sweat-resistant.

“So easy to apply. This is great when you want to put sunscreen on areas such as your ears and nose.” – Jodie S.

Unseen Sunscreen Stick SPF 40

If you love the invisible magic of our Unseen Sunscreen, meet your new on-the-go hero. Our Unseen Sunscreen Stick gives you the same undetectable protection in a quick swipe. Bonus: it’s water- and sweat-resistant for 40 minutes, so your ears stay protected even if you’re out for a run or lounging poolside.

“The Unseen Sunscreen Stick is awesome! It is so easy to apply, even to the tops of my ears! It goes on quickly and doesn't require my getting it on my hands to apply.” – Anne G.

PLAY Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50

Prefer a mineral option? This one’s for you. Our PLAY Mineral Sunscreen Stick packs powerful mineral SPF into a pocket-sized stick that covers all the spots you tend to forget — ears included. The smooth formula makes reapplication a breeze, whether you’re hiking, swimming or just running errands. Plus, it’s water- and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes.

“This makes application so much easier, especially for my daughters.” – Damara G.

More Ways to Protect Your Ears from the Sun

Sunscreen is a key part of your defense, but don’t stop there. Protecting your ears from UV rays is even easier when you combine SPF with a few smart habits:

Wear a Wide-Brimmed Hat

A classic wide-brimmed hat isn’t just stylish, it shades your ears along with your face and neck! Baseball caps are great, but they often leave ears exposed, so go wide when you know you’ll be out in the sun for long stretches.

Seek Some Shade

If you’re spending hours outdoors, give your skin (and that includes ears) a break now and then with some shade. Take your lunch under an umbrella or rest under a tree when you can.

Make Ear Protection a No-Brainer

Sunscreen is one of the easiest ways to protect your skin, but only if you apply it where it counts. The next time you apply SPF, take a few extra seconds to cover your ears: front, back, tops, and sides. A good sunscreen stick makes it quick and easy without messy fingers or drips. Toss one in your bag, glove box, or pocket so you’re always ready to reapply when you’re out and about.