Sunscreen not working? 4 mistakes that cut real SPF

São Paulo hit 34.6°C and your protection may be slipping: 4 everyday sunscreen mistakes that reduce real-life SPF.

As summer temperatures rise, daily sun exposure climbs with them. In São Paulo, last Saturday (10) brought the hottest afternoon of 2026 so far, reaching 34.6°C, according to Climatempo.

Wearing sunscreen isn’t just a summer rule, but the season makes the stakes clearer. Stronger radiation increases the risk of dark spots, premature aging, and even skin disease, which is why using the product correctly matters as much as remembering it.

Luzia Costa, CEO of Sóbrancelhas—described as Latin America’s largest facial aesthetics network—says the most common issue isn’t 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 the product is used correctly and consistently,” she warns.

4 common mistakes that weaken sunscreen protection

1) Using too little product

One of the biggest mistakes is applying less than you need. To get the protection shown on the label, the guidance is to use a generous amount—about one teaspoon for the face and neck. “When we apply too little, the real SPF on the skin is much 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. The recommendation is to reapply every two to three hours, especially on high-exposure days.

3) Choosing an SPF that’s too low

Many people pick low SPF thinking it’s enough for everyday life. In summer, 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 option for daily use, Luzia points to Sóbrancelhas’ sunscreen moisturizer, rated SPF 50, combining hydration and high protection in one product.

4) Protecting the face but neglecting the body

Another common slip is focusing only on the face and forgetting areas like arms, legs, chest, and neck. “The body also suffers from sun damage and needs the same care. Body spots and loss of firmness are directly linked to unprotected exposure,” Luzia says.

Make sun protection a daily habit

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

Photo: Divulgação