Heatwave weekend: 4 sunscreen mistakes to avoid

São Paulo just saw its hottest afternoon of 2026: sunscreen missteps can cut your real SPF and raise the risk of spots and early aging.

As summer arrives, higher temperatures and longer sun exposure demand extra care for your skin. In São Paulo, last Saturday (10) delivered the hottest afternoon of 2026 so far, reaching 34.6°C, according to Climatempo.

Sunscreen isn’t only a summer product, but summer is when consistency matters most. With stronger solar radiation, the risk of dark spots, premature aging, and even skin diseases increases—making correct, everyday use essential.

It’s not only about forgetting

According to Luzia Costa, CEO of Sóbrancelhas—the largest facial aesthetics network in Latin America—the biggest issue isn’t just skipping sunscreen, but using it the wrong way. “There’s no point applying sunscreen ‘any way’ or without considering your skin’s needs. Protection only works when it’s used correctly and consistently,” she warns.

4 habits that weaken protection

1) Using too little

One of the most common mistakes is applying less than you need. To get close to the labeled protection, the guidance is to use a generous amount—about one teaspoon for face and neck. “When we apply too little, the real SPF on the skin is far lower than what’s stated,” Luzia explains.

2) Not reapplying during the day

Sunscreen doesn’t last all day. Sweat, oil, and water contact reduce its effectiveness. Ideally, reapply every two to three hours, especially on high-exposure days.

3) Choosing an SPF that’s too low for summer

Many people pick lower numbers thinking they’re enough for daily life. In summer, however, the recommendation is SPF 30 or higher—even on cloudy days.

“UVA radiation, which drives skin aging, is present all year long,” the expert adds. As a practical day-to-day option, Luzia points to Sóbrancelhas’ sunscreen moisturizer, rated SPF 50, combining hydration and high protection in one product.

4) Protecting your face and forgetting your body

Another frequent slip is focusing only on the face while neglecting arms, legs, chest area, and neck. “Your body also takes sun damage and needs the same care. Dark spots and loss of firmness are directly linked to unprotected exposure,” Luzia says.

A daily health habit

For the specialist, sun protection should be treated as a daily routine of health and self-care. “Skin care is a long-term investment. Prevention is always the best way to keep skin looking healthy and protected,” she concludes.

Foto: Divulgação