5 SPF Mistakes You’re Making Right Now (And How to Fix Them Before Spring)

You wouldn’t skip brushing your teeth for six months, right? So why are so many people skipping sunscreen until summer?

UV levels are rising across the United States even when it’s cloudy, chilly, or still snowing. If you’re serious about glowing skin and long-term anti-aging, then let this be your wake-up call.

Let’s fix the five of the biggest SPF mistakes before spring officially arrives.

Why Sunscreen Mistakes Matter More in February and March

UV rays don’t wait for summer! Here are the facts:

UVA rays (the aging rays) are present year-round.

Clouds don’t block most UV radiation.

Snow reflects up to 80% of UV rays.

Daily exposure during commuting adds up.

If you’re waiting until beach weather to use SPF, your skin might already be paying the price.

Mistake #1 – Only Using SPF in Summer

Sunscreen isn’t seasonal. It’s daily skincare. Even in 50–60°F weather, UV rays penetrate clouds and car windows. That means your morning coffee run and afternoon walk both count as sun exposure.

Fix it: Make SPF the last step of your morning skincare routine; every single day.

Mistake #2 – Not Reapplying Sunscreen

Applying once at 8 AM doesn’t protect you at 2 PM. Sweat, oil production, touching your face, and environmental exposure break down sunscreen faster than you think!

Derm-recommended rule: Reapply every two hours when outdoors.

Pro tip for makeup wearers: Use lightweight mineral formulas that layer smoothly without pilling.

Mistake #3 – Skipping Your Ears, Neck, and Hairline

Your face isn’t the only area exposed. The ears and neck are among the most commonly sun-damaged areas because they’re often forgotten! These spots also show early signs of aging.

Fix it: After applying to your face, sweep excess product across:

Ears

Neck

Hairline

Back of hands

Mistake #4 – Not Applying Enough SPF

Most people apply only 25–50% of the recommended amount. For your face alone, use the two-finger method: Squeeze sunscreen along the length of your index and middle fingers.

For your body? We recommend a shot glass worth of mineral sunscreen. Thin layers reduce the SPF level significantly, meaning SPF 40 becomes much lower in real protection

Mistake #5 – Using Expired Sunscreen

If your sunscreen has been in your beach bag since 2022, it’s time to chuck it. Here’s why using expired sunscreen isn’t great:

Loses effectiveness

Separates in texture

Smells different

Provides unreliable protection

Check the expiration date before spring break packing!

Why Mineral Sunscreen Makes Application Easier

Mineral sunscreen, like CoTZ offers consistent, UVA and UVB broad-spectrum protection using physical blockers that sit on the skin’s surface.

Benefits of mineral SPF that you’ll love:

Gentler on acne-prone skin than regular sunscreen

Less irritation

Works immediately after application

Makeup-compatible formulas available, like our CoTZ Face Prime & Protect SPF 40, it’s a makeup primer and sunscreen all in one!

If you want protection without heaviness or breakouts, mineral options are ideal for daily wear.

Quick Spring SPF Checklist

Before you step outside tomorrow:

✔ Apply every morning
✔ Use enough product
✔ Cover ears and neck
✔ Reapply every 2 hours outdoors
✔ Check expiration dates

Your future skin will thank you!

Your Spring Glow Starts with Smart SPF

Healthy, clear, youthful skin isn’t about reacting to sun damage. It’s about preventing it. Fix these five SPF mistakes now, before UV levels peak; and step into spring protected, confident, and glowing.

Do I need sunscreen on cloudy days?

Yes. Even on cloudy days up to 80% of UV rays penetrate through clouds.

How often should I reapply sunscreen?

Every two hours when outdoors or 40 minutes after sweating/swimming if using CoTZ Sensitive sunscreen or 80 minutes after sweating/swimming if using CoTZ Face Moisture or Face Prime & Protect.