4 Reasons Your Face Gets Sunburned, Even When You Wear Sunscreen

So you’ve started wearing face sunscreen but noticed that your face is still looking a little red at the end of the day. Confusing, right? Wearing face sunscreen is essential, but how you use it matters just as much as that you use it.

That’s why we’re breaking down four common reasons your face can still get sunburned even when SPF is part of your routine and what you can do to help prevent it next time.

Reason 1: You Missed Some Spots

This one’s more common than you think. Areas like the hairline, around the nose, under the eyes, and along the jawline can be easy to miss, especially when you’re in a hurry. That’s where layering comes in. Adding SPF to multiple steps of your routine can help cover your bases and reduce the chances of missing a spot. Instead of relying on a single product, layering creates a more even shield across your skin.

Here are some Supergoop! standouts that make layering SPF easy:

Triple Prep Weightless Multitasking Moisturizer SPF 40: A daily face moisturizer that delivers weightless hydration, expert sun protection, and a supported moisture barrier
Dewscreen Hydrating Primer SPF 50: A hydrating primer that drenches your skin, grips your makeup, boosts protection with broad spectrum SPF 50, and leaves a dewy finish
Protec(tint) Daily Skin Tint SPF 50: A lightweight skin tint with powerful sun protection and light, buildable coverage

Layering doesn’t mean piling it on; it just means being thoughtful about how SPF shows up throughout your routine.

Reason 2: You’re Not Using Enough Face Sunscreen

We see this one a lot. Using face sunscreen every day is a great habit, but using enough sunscreen is what makes it effective. A good rule of thumb is a nickel-sized dollop for your face. That amount helps ensure you’re getting the level of protection listed on the label. Applying too little can leave your skin more exposed than you realize, even if you’re technically wearing SPF.

If you’re using a sunscreen stick, make sure you’re swiping generously and evenly across your face. Multiple passes over the same area help deliver adequate coverage, especially on spots like the cheeks, forehead, and nose.

Reason 3: You’re Not Reapplying Frequently Enough

Sunscreen works hard to protect your skin, but it’s important to remember it doesn’t last all day. Things like sweating, touching your face, oil production, friction from masks or hats, and sun exposure itself can all break down SPF. That’s why dermatologists recommend reapplying at least every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming, sweating, or toweling off. Sticks, sprays, and powders make reapplication easier when you’re on the go.

Pro tip: If you’re moving a lot, reach for a water and sweat resistant option, like PLAY Everyday Lotion SPF 50, to help your SPF keep up with your day.Content Article

Reason 4: You’re Not Choosing the Right Type of Sunscreen

Not all sunscreens are created equal! Just because a product includes SPF doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for your face. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, your sunscreen should meet two key criteria:

Broad spectrum protection, which helps protect against UVA aging rays and UVB burning rays
At least SPF 30, which blocks about 97% of UVB rays

Every Supergoop! face sunscreen checks both of those boxes, so you can avoid the guesswork and enjoy reliable sun protection designed specifically for your face.

Face Sunscreen, Made Simple

Sun protection doesn’t have to be a single step you try to remember. It works best when it shows up throughout your routine. From moisturizers and primers to tints and easy reapplication options, Supergoop! makes it simple to layer SPF in ways that actually fit your day.

Whether you’re heading out for a hike, touching up between plans, or lounging on your beach chair, we’re here make staying protected feel like second nature.