10 Sunblock Mistakes Everyone Makes (And How to Fix Them)

Most people use UV protection products, but recent 2025 data shows they’re still doing it wrong.

Sunblock isn’t just a skincare add-on, it’s your first line of defence against premature ageing, pigmentation, and skin damage. Yet, even regular users unknowingly reduce its effectiveness.

The consensus among dermatologists and know it all beauty gurus agree one one thing: user error is the most common reason UV defence fails. 

If your sun protection product isn’t working, chances are one of these 10 mistakes is why.

Here’s exactly how to fix them.

Mistake 1: You’re Not Using Enough Product

Applying too little can reduce effectiveness by up to 60%.

Fix it: Use the two-finger method, squeeze the product along the full length of your index and middle fingers. That’s the minimum for your face and neck. For a full body, aim for a shot glass–sized amount.

A 2025 skincare study found most people apply only 30–50% of the recommended amount for full UV coverage.

Many people assume a thin layer is enough, especially if the product feels sticky or leaves a white cast. But underapplication means your SPF 50 might perform like SPF 15, a drastic drop.

If you're using spray sunblock, spray until your skin glistens, then rub it in. With sticks, swipe each area at least 4 times back and forth.

Mistake 2: You’re Applying It at the Wrong Time

Layering it incorrectly in your routine can reduce protection.

Fix it: Sunblock should be the last step in your skincare, right before makeup, not after. If applied too early, it gets diluted by moisturiser or rubbed off by primer.

• Wait 1–2 minutes after moisturising
• Let your sunblock set for 3–5 minutes before makeup

Applying sunblock too soon after your moisturiser may cause it to pill or mix with wet layers underneath. Give it enough time to form a proper barrier.

Mistake 3: You’re Using the Wrong Formula for Your Skin

Not all UV products are made equal,  and the wrong one may cause breakouts or irritation.

Fix it: Choose based on skin type:

Skin Type	Ideal Formula Type
Oily	Lightweight gel, matte finish, oil-free
Dry	Cream-based, hydrating with ceramides
Sensitive	Mineral-based (zinc oxide), fragrance-free

A user with oily skin who uses a greasy cream might break out more, while someone with dry skin using a gel might feel tight or flaky.

Mistake 4: You’re Not Reapplying It Often Enough

Sun protection breaks down after 2 hours, especially with sweat and oil.

Fix it: Reapply every 2 hours when outdoors, or after sweating, swimming, or wiping your face. Use:

• Sunblock mist or spray
• Compact cushions with UV filters
• Powder-based UV touch-up products

Everyday Reapply Scenarios:

• Midday lunch breaks in the sun
• Morning commute or errands
• Gym sessions and outdoor runs
• Sitting by a window in the office

Even casual exposure adds up. Keep a portable reapplication method in your bag or car.

Mistake 5: You’re Relying on SPF in Makeup or Moisturiser

SPF 15 in your BB cream isn’t enough, not even close.

Fix it: Always use a dedicated sun defence layer before makeup. Cosmetic SPF is a bonus, not a substitute.

"SPF in foundation isn’t layered thick enough to work. Use real sunblock underneath." — Dr. Elaine Ng, Dermatologist (2025)

Most makeup users don’t apply enough product to achieve label-listed SPF protection. It’s especially true for foundations and powders.

Mistake 6: You’re Skipping It on Cloudy or Rainy Days

UVA rays, the ones that age your skin, come through clouds.

Fix it: Daily protection is non-negotiable. Even on overcast days or while indoors by windows, UVA exposure builds up over time.

Singapore’s 2025 UV Index data showed that 70% of total UV exposure occurs during cloudy daylight hours. Don’t let the weather fool you and be proactive in protecting your skin.

Mistake 7: You’re Forgetting Ears, Lips, and Hands

These areas age the fastest and are often neglected.

Fix it:

• Use lip balm with sun protection
• Apply to ears, back of the neck, and hairline
• Reapply to your hands after washing

Not-so Fun fact: Hands show sun damage faster than the face due to constant exposure.

Dermatologists often say they can guess someone’s age by looking at their hands. Apply sunblock here as religiously as you would your face.

Mistake 8: You’re Using Expired or Heat-Damaged Products

Sunblock breaks down over time and with heat exposure, just like any product.

Fix it:

• Replace your sunblock every 6–12 months
• Never store it in a hot car or direct sunlight
• If it smells off or separates, throw it out

Products exposed to constant heat, like in gym bags or cars, lose efficacy even if unopened. Store them in a cool drawer if you can or an air conditioned room.

Mistake 9: You’re Over-Blending or Under-Blending

Over-rubbing breaks the protection layer; under-blending causes patchiness.

Fix it:

• Dot it across your face and pat gently to spread
• Let it settle, no vigorous rubbing

The goal is even coverage without micro-tears in the film. Think of it like painting a wall, don't scrub the paint in.

Mistake 10: You’re Rushing Your Skincare Layers

Not waiting between steps can lead to product pilling and poor coverage. We know that traffic jams, getting sardined in the MRT is not fun, but so is having irritated skin!

Fix it:

• Wait 30–60 seconds between moisturiser and sunblock
• Wait another 2–3 minutes before applying makeup

If you're short on time, skip makeup and not sunblock. You can always blot and go.

The Correct Order to Apply Sun Protection in 2025

1. Cleanser
2. Toner or serum (if used)
3. Moisturiser
4. UV protection product (SPF 30+)
5. Makeup (if applicable)

No time? Just cleanse, moisturise, and apply sunblock. That’s your bare minimum.

What We’ve Learned About Sunblock in 2025

Sunblock works, but only if you use it correctly. These 10 mistakes are incredibly common and silently undermine even the most expensive skincare routines.

Fixing just a few of these issues will give you better protection, clearer skin, and a stronger defence against premature ageing.

This isn’t about adding more steps, it’s about getting the steps right.

Quick Takeaways:

• Use enough product, two fingers for face, shot glass for body
• Reapply every 2 hours outdoors
• Apply to lips, ears, and hands
• Replace sunblock regularly and store properly

If you want great sunblock that protects your fair skin from harmful rays of the sun, browse our collection sunblock for bath and body! We guarantee that with combined our expert guide, you will have a fair and porcelain skin free from the sunny irritants.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sunblock

How often should I reapply sunblock?

Every 2 hours when outdoors or exposed to sunlight.

Should I use sunblock indoors?

Yes. UVA rays pass through windows and can cause long-term damage.

Is SPF in makeup enough?

No. You’d need far more product than usual to get full protection.

Can expired sunblock still work?

No. Always check dates. Expired formulas degrade quickly.

What’s the best formula for oily skin?

Lightweight, gel-based sun protection that dries matte.

When should sunblock go in my routine?

After moisturiser, before makeup.