4 Sunscreen Mistakes You Might Be Making While Exercising (And How to Fix Them)
Ever headed out for a run thinking an overcast sky meant you were safe from the sun? Or found yourself mesmerized by the mountain views, forgetting that the higher you go, the stronger the sun?
Getting active outdoors is a beautiful way to connect—with your body, nature, and the present moment. But remember: your skin comes along for the ride. And if you’re not protecting it properly, the effects go beyond a short-term sunburn. Over time, UV damage can quietly build up and leave its mark.
Let’s break down four common sunscreen slip-ups we see in outdoor sports lovers and how to avoid them, along with a little help from our favorite tennis champion. Because taking care of your skin is part of taking care of yourself.
Mistake #1: Only applying sunscreen when it’s sunny
Think sunscreen’s only for summer days? You’re not alone. Only about 13% of Americans wear their favorite formula every day. But UV rays don’t take a break—and neither should your sun protection.
Over 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, meaning even on chilly, overcast mornings, your skin is still vulnerable. And while you might not feel the effects right away, sun damage is cumulative. Think uneven tone, fine lines, loss of firmness, and over time, a higher risk of skin concerns, including cancer.
What you can do: Make applying sunscreen a part of your daily routine, rain or shine. Just like stretching before a workout or lacing up your shoes, it’s an essential step.
Mistake #2: Skipping reapplication (Yes, it’s that important)
You’ve gotten into the habit of applying sunscreen before heading out for a workout—great start! But if that’s where your sun protection routine ends, your skin might not be getting the coverage it needs.
When you’re moving, sweating, and exposed to sunlight, your sunscreen works overtime. Sweat, friction, and heat can all challenge its effectiveness. That’s why reapplying at least every two hours is essential—even on cloudy or cooler days.
Here’s how to stay covered:
- Build reapplication into your routine: Use rest breaks to drink water, grab a snack, and refresh your sunscreen—especially on high-exposure areas like your face, neck, and shoulders.
- Choose a water-resistant sunscreen: Ideal for surf sessions or intense outdoor training, water-resistant Eryfotona Actinica SPF 50+ helps protect against and repair sun damage.
- Choose a sunscreen with a boost of antioxidants: Fusion Water MAGIC SPF 40 is an ultralight sunscreen formulated to minimize eye irritation. A favorite of Carlos Alcaraz himself, it’s your ideal companion for an afternoon on the court.
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Taking a moment to reapply could mean the difference between healthy, resilient skin and long-term damage. It’s a small habit with big rewards.
Mistake #3: Not applying enough
A dab on your face. A swipe on your shoulders. And you’re good to go? Not quite.
Most people under-apply sunscreen, which drastically reduces its effectiveness—especially during sports, when friction and sweat speed up wear and tear.
The golden rule: Two finger-lengths of product for your face. About three tablespoons (or a shot glass) for your body. That’s the only way to get close to the level of SPF protection listed on the label.
Mistake #4: Overlooking key areas
You’ve got your face and shoulders covered. But what about your ears, scalp, neck, or the tops of your feet?
Commonly forgotten areas are often the first to burn and the last to be protected. These delicate areas can also benefit from a little extra coverage. Add a hat, shades, and UPF clothing to your lineup whenever you can.
Pro tip: Do a quick mental scan before you head out. And bring on-the-go options like a sunscreen stick or SPF lip balm to touch up easily when you’re on the move.
Your skin’s in the game
Your skin shows up for you every time you train—it moves, breathes, and pushes through right alongside you.
Taking care of it isn’t just about how it looks. It’s about protecting what helps you do what you love. With a few simple habits and the right sunscreen in your bag, it’s easy to stay one step ahead of sun damage.
So next time you head out, remember the essentials: sneakers, water, focus… and sunscreen. Your skin’s counting on you.
Sun, set & match! Enter for your chance to win two tickets to the US Open and the tennis racket trusted by Carlos Alcaraz inside LOVE ISDIN.
Sources
Hobbs C, Nahar VK, Ford MA, Bass MA, Brodell RT, Skin Cancer Knowledge, Attitudes and Behaviors in Collegiate Athletes, Journal of Skin Cancer. 2014 doi: 10.1155/2014/248198
Byrne et al. Broken-Cloud Enhancement of Solar Radiation Absorption, Journal of the Atmospheric Sciences Vol. 53, No. 6, 1996.
