5 ‘Brutal’ Sunscreen Mistakes To Avoid This Summer—#1 Increases Skin Cancer Risk

Summer is here, and with it comes the siren call of sun-drenched beaches, poolside lounging, and golden hour selfies. But while we’re busy chasing that glow, many of us are unknowingly making sunscreen mistakes that could cost us more than just a little redness.

Dr. Dray, a board-certified dermatologist and popular skincare YouTuber, recently reacted to a viral video of a young woman who ended up in the hospital with a blistering sunburn so severe she needed IV fluids. “Blistering sunburns like this are serious,” Dr. Dray warned. “You can lose a lot of fluids and electrolytes—not to mention need serious wound care.”

It was a shocking reminder that sun safety isn’t just about beauty—it’s about health. And as Dr. Dray explains, it’s often the small, everyday sunscreen mistakes that lead to the biggest damage. Here are the five worst sunscreen slip-ups—and what you should be doing instead.

Mistake 1: Thinking Sunscreen = Unlimited Sun Time

So many of us treat sunscreen like a hall pass to lie out in the sun for hours. But according to Dr. Dray, that “shield of armor” mentality is a huge mistake.

“Sunscreen may reduce your risk of burning, but you’re still getting a ton of ultraviolet radiation exposure, especially if you’re laying out during midday,” she says. Sunscreen isn’t a permission slip to bake. UV rays still cause skin aging, hyperpigmentation, and increase your skin cancer risk—even when SPF is on.

Do this instead: Pair sunscreen with physical protection—wide-brimmed hats, UPF clothing, and shade-seeking behavior. Avoid direct sun between 10 AM and 4 PM.

Mistake 2: Relying on Makeup or Moisturizer with SPF

We love a good multitasking product, but Dr. Dray makes it clear: your tinted moisturizer or SPF-infused foundation isn’t enough.

“You’re not applying it thick enough, or evenly enough, to get true protection,” she explains. “I consider makeup with SPF an added bonus—not your main defense.”

Do this instead: Apply a dedicated sunscreen first, at the correct amount—then layer your makeup. And no, a dab on your nose doesn’t count.

Mistake 3: Not Applying Enough—or Missing Key Spots

According to Dr. Dray, one of the most common missteps is under-applying SPF. Most people use way too little—and skip areas like ears, hairlines, temples, and the back of the neck.

“Watch how you apply your night cream,” she says. “Chances are, you’re not getting your ears or your entire neck. And that’s a problem with sunscreen too.”

Do this instead: Use the two-finger rule for your face, and a shot glass-sized amount for your entire body. Don’t forget your ears, scalp, and hands.

Mistake 4: Skipping Reapplication

Even if you nailed your morning SPF, that protection fades. Between sweating, swimming, and towel-drying, your sunscreen wears off faster than you think.

“You can get a sunburn in the water and not even realize it,” Dr. Dray says. “It feels cool, but sunscreen rubs off—and alcohol doesn’t help either. It lowers your awareness and increases sun sensitivity.”

Do this instead: Reapply every two hours, more often if you’re sweating or in the water. Use water-resistant sunscreen (40 or 80-minute formulas), and towel dry before reapplying.

Mistake 5: Mixing Sunscreen with Other Products

Trying to DIY your ideal finish by mixing sunscreen with foundation? Stop right there.

“When you mix something into your sunscreen, you change its chemistry,” Dr. Dray cautions. “That compromises its ability to protect you.”

Do this instead: Layer, don’t mix. Let your sunscreen fully dry before applying makeup or other skincare. And if you’re using a spray or stick? Make sure you rub it in and cover all areas to avoid “skip zones.”