In this article:
Heads up
Check your neck
Ears
Toes and tops of feet
Backs of hands
Lips
Best sunscreens for face and body
When we apply sunscreen, most of us usually start with the face; it’s easy to remember because it’s right there in front of you. Arms and legs usually get SPF love, too, and most of us even give the back and shoulders attention when we know we’ll be outside.
But there are other areas that are exposed to UV rays too—areas you might not even think about, but should, because missing them can lead to sun damage, sunburn and can even increase your chances of certain types of skin cancer (1). Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Debra Jaliman remarks on how important it is to apply sunscreen everywhere that’s exposed, saying, “It is crucial to be meticulous in order to ensure complete protection against the harmful UV rays emitted by the sun.”
To make sure you’re fully protecting yourself from the sun, below we outline some sunscreen application tips to ensure you’re sun-safe from head to toe.
Heads up
When you’re thinking about applying sunscreen, you need to take it from the top! That’s right, start with the top of your head— your scalp.
Although research proves this area is often neglected when it comes to SPF application, the scalp is just as vulnerable to sunburn as anywhere else on the body, and that’s not just the case for people who don’t have hair (2). Anyone with close-cropped hair, shaved hair, or even just a part in their hair should apply sun protection to the exposed skin. If you’re bald, applying sunscreen over the entirety of your head is recommended.
We do realise that applying a thick, heavy scalp sunscreen in your hair isn’t a wise option; this is where a lightweight spray sunscreen or powder formula can be a real asset. (Wearing a hat also helps.)
Check your neck
Sure, you often cover the front of your neck when you’re applying facial sunscreen, but what about the back of your neck?
Even if you have long hair or are wearing a high-collared shirt, if you’re outside, your hair and collar can shift (or you might pull your hair up if you get warm), further exposing the skin on the back of the neck to UV rays. It’s best to protect the back of the neck even if you don’t think you need it.
Ears
The tops of your ears are often an afterthought, but they see a lot of sun exposure, even when you’re wearing a cap, and not just during all-day outdoor activities. Any time spent out in the sun (even waiting for a bus or walking from your car to the office) puts those tender ears at risk. Remember, the phrase “my ears are burning” should be figurative, not literal.
Toes and tops of feet
As for your feet, anyone who’s had a sunburn there knows how annoying and painful it can be, because you generally cover up that skin with socks and shoes. If you’re going out barefoot, with sandals, or even with a mostly closed shoe with an open cut-out design, slather on sunscreen. If you’re worried about your footwear sliding off after you apply, choose a non-greasy sunscreen that sinks right into skin.
Backs of hands
Be honest, do you really apply SPF to your hands, too?
Our hands are constantly exposed to UV rays. They’re what we use to help us interact with and navigate the world around us. Applying sunscreen to the back of our hands helps us keep skin healthy and sun-damage free.
Remember to reapply every two hours and after hand washing too for ultimate protection.
Lips
Much like our ears, we often accidentally skip our lips when applying facial sunscreen. The lips can be tricky because the sunscreens we use on our cheeks, chin, forehead and ears often aren’t formulated for the lips and leave behind a peculiar SPF taste. This is where SPF-powered lip balms and sunscreen lip glosses come into play. Apply these as you would any other lip product and voila- your lips are protected from the sun!
Best sunscreens for face and body
The best sunscreens for the face and body are gentle and free of volatile fragrance, denatured alcohol and sensitising ingredients.
For the scalp, lightweight textures work wonders, as do powder options for more oily scalp types. You can take whichever scalp or face sunscreen you’re using and apply to your ears and the back of your neck.
Non-greasy, lightweight moisturising options work wonders for the back of the hands and feet so you don’t slip and slide around.
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References for this information:
- Journal of Cosmetic Science, July/August 2020, pages 191-198
- Advances in Dermatology and Allergology, July 2021, pages 505-509
