These 10 SPF Slip-Ups Are Ruining Your Holiday Glow

When it comes to sun protection, most of us think we’ve got it covered — a quick layer of sunscreen in the morning and we’re good to go, right? Not quite. According to Kimberley Medd, Clinic Lead at Face the Future, even the most skincare-savvy among us are guilty of slipping up when it comes to SPF. From applying too little to forgetting key areas, these small oversights can leave our skin vulnerable to damage, even when we think we’re being careful.

This is especially true in the UK, where living in a cooler, often cloudy climate means many people don’t build daily SPF into their routine the way they might in sunnier countries. In contrast, places like Australia, where public awareness campaigns and a high incidence of skin cancer have made sun protection part of everyday culture, show us how much more we could be doing. For many Brits, SPF is still seen as something for summer holidays, not a year-round essential.

Below, Kimberley shares the 10 most common sunscreen mistakes she sees time and again, especially when Brits head off on their annual summer holiday. From last-minute airport buys to underestimating just how strong the sun can be abroad, these are the easy slip-ups that could be putting your skin at risk. Whether you’re heading to the Med, a long-haul beach break, or just chasing the sun in Europe, these expert tips will help keep your skin protected, healthy, and holiday-ready.

1. Only Applying Sunscreen Once A Day

Many people apply SPF before breakfast or as they’re about to sink into their sun-bed and think they’re sorted for the day. In reality, SPF breaks down over time, especially with the intense sun exposure abroad, being in and out of water, your increase in sweat and towel-drying. Re-apply every two hours, and straight after swimming or sweating. This is key to embed into your daily routine, not just on holiday.

2. Not Using Enough SPF

Most people use less than half the recommended amount. That means the protection level on the bottle isn’t what you’re actually getting on your skin. Use a shot glass (about 30ml) for full-body coverage. For your face alone, applying at least two finger-lengths worth of product is ideal.

3. Ignoring Water Resistance

Your regular daily SPF might be fine at home, but it won’t hold up against pool days and sea swims.

Choose a water-resistant formula for when you’re at the beach or by the pool

4. Forgetting to Pack Sunscreen in Your Carry-On

If you’re checking a suitcase, you might assume you’re sorted. But airport layovers, long-haul flights and sunny arrivals can catch you out.

5. Only Using SPF When It’s Sunny

Cloudy day? You still need sunscreen. Up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds. A good tip is to check the UV index on your weather app!

6. Not Adjusting SPF For Your Destination

SPF 15 might be fine for a grey Tuesday at home, but it won’t protect you in tropical destinations or at a high altitude. Choose SPF 30 or higher if you’re escaping to somewhere sunny or high up in the mountains.

7. Missing Key Areas

Hands up if you’ve burnt your ears or scalp before. It’s easy to forget places like your lips, ears, scalp, feet and the backs of your hands.

8. Applying Sunscreen Right Before Sun Exposure

If you’re applying your SPF just as you hit the sun lounger, you’re leaving your skin exposed. Apply your SPF 15-30 minutes before heading outside to give it time to absorb.

9. Using Expired SPF

That bottle you found at the bottom of your beach bag from last year will most likely not be doing anything anymore. Always check expiration dates and replace if needed.

10. Skipping SPF On The Plane

At 30,000 feet in the air, UV exposure is actually higher, especially if you’re sitting by the window. Protect your skin from UV exposure on daytime flights.