The Top 5 Mistakes People Make with Daily Sunscreen (And How to Fix Them)

Wearing sunscreen every day is one of the best things you can do for your skin—but only if you’re doing it right. Many people apply SPF daily and still end up with sun damage, breakouts, or uneven skin tone simply because of small mistakes.
In this blog, we’ll break down the 5 most common SPF mistakes and how to avoid them. Plus, we’ll show you how The Routine SPF 40 helps you get your daily sun protection right—with no white cast, no greasy texture, and no excuses.
1. Using Too Little SPF
The Mistake:
Applying a pea-sized amount or just a light layer across the face.
Why It Matters:
You need about ½ teaspoon for your face and neck to get the full SPF protection advertised on the bottle. Anything less leaves your skin vulnerable.
The Fix:
Be generous. With The Routine’s lightweight, gel texture, it’s easy to apply the correct amount without feeling heavy or sticky.
2. Skipping Reapplication
The Mistake:
Applying sunscreen once in the morning and assuming you're protected all day.
Why It Matters:
Sunscreen breaks down over time—especially with sun exposure, sweating, or touching your face. Most formulas need to be reapplied every 2 to 3 hours.
The Fix:
Keep a travel-sized SPF or SPF powder for reapplication throughout the day. The Routine’s non-sticky formula makes layering easy and shine-free.
3. Not Applying to All Areas
The Mistake:
Forgetting spots like ears, neck, hairline, and the backs of hands.
Why It Matters:
These areas are frequently exposed to the sun and often show signs of ageing first. Skin cancer is also common in missed areas like the ears.
The Fix:
Extend your SPF application to your neck, ears, eyelids, and hands. The Routine SPF 40 absorbs quickly and blends easily into hard-to-reach spots.
4. Applying SPF Before Moisturiser
The Mistake:
Putting sunscreen on before your other skincare products.
Why It Matters:
SPF should be the final step in your morning skincare routine. If you apply moisturiser after SPF, you may dilute its effectiveness or move it around, leading to patchy protection.
The Fix:
Always apply The Routine SPF 40 as the last step before makeup. Its lightweight formula sits perfectly on top of other skincare.
5. Relying on SPF in Makeup Alone
The Mistake:
Thinking your foundation or BB cream with SPF is enough protection.
Why It Matters:
You'd need to apply way more makeup than usual to get the level of SPF on the label. Most people don’t apply thick enough layers to get full protection.
The Fix:
Use a standalone SPF like The Routine under your makeup. It creates an even, protected base—without affecting the finish of your foundation.
Why The Routine SPF 40 Makes It Easier to Get it Right
✔️ SPF 40 broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB
✔️ Lightweight gel formula for easy application
✔️ Zero white cast on all skin tones
✔️ Matte, non-sticky finish suitable for makeup layering
✔️ Water- and sweat-resistant for all-day confidence
✔️ Fragrance-free and non-comedogenic for all skin types
No more excuses. No more second-guessing.
Final Thought: It's Not Just About Wearing SPF—It's About Wearing It Right
Sun protection is too important to get wrong. With a little knowledge and the right product, protecting your skin can be effortless.
Want to skip the guesswork?
Shop now at theroutine-skin.com and get daily SPF that makes doing it right feel easy.