SPF is one of the most powerful tools in your skincare routine — and one of the most misused. Even patients investing in professional treatments often undermine their results by getting SPF wrong.
The first mistake is under-applying. The recommended dose is roughly two finger-lengths of product for the face and neck. Most people use a third of that, which dramatically reduces the protection you actually get.
The second mistake is forgetting to reapply. SPF degrades with UV exposure, sweat and rubbing. If you're outdoors, reapply every two hours; if you're at a desk near a window, once mid-morning and once mid-afternoon is a good rule.
The third mistake is skipping SPF on cloudy days or in winter. Up to 80% of UV rays pass through cloud cover, and UVA (the wavelength most responsible for photoageing) reaches you year-round.
If you've invested in dermal fillers, skin boosters, microneedling or chemical peels, daily broad-spectrum SPF 50 is non-negotiable. It protects your results and prevents the pigmentation that can develop after treatment.