June 19, 2023

5 Spots You’re Probably Forgetting To Put Sunscreen

It’s easy to forget your ears, eyelids, lips and feet — but any exposed skin needs protection

applying sunscreen to feet

We all know that we should put on sunscreen every time we are out in the sun. But there are some important parts of the body we often miss.

Advertisement

Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy

When is the last time you put sunscreen on your ears? These are among the places that people most often forget to apply sunscreen, says dermatologist Jennifer Lucas, MD.

“Common places people miss are going to be the ears, your eyelids, your lips, your scalp, the top of your feet or places near the edges of clothing, such as straps,” Dr. Lucas says.

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays are the major cause of skin cancer. Healthcare providers believe that people can avoid most skin cancers by taking steps to protect themselves against the cellular damage these rays cause.

Dr. Lucas elaborates on these forgotten spots where we need to apply sunscreen.

Places you’re probably forgetting to put sunscreen

You may think you’re being vigilant with your sunscreen protection, but there are five spots on your body that are commonly overlooked:

Your ears

Ears are the third most common location for skin cancers. Skin cancers can occur on any part of your ear, including the conchal bowl (middle part of your ear), an area that’s relatively protected from the sun.

“Remember that even when you drive in your car, the sun’s rays are hitting your ears through the windows and daily sunscreen use is essential,” Dr. Lucas reminds us.

Advertisement

Your eyelids

Sunscreen for eyelids: Yes or no?

Yes! The best way to protect your eyelids is to wear sunglasses. But if you’re trying to avoid tan lines on your face, use an eye cream that contains sun protection factor (SPF), a sunscreen stick and/or one of the mineral sunscreens/sunscreen with physical blockers — titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, Dr. Lucas suggests.

“Most people don’t think about sun exposure on their eyelids, but skin cancers in this area can be particularly challenging to treat,” she adds.

Your lips

A lip balm that contains SPF will protect your lips. Be sure to reapply frequently if you eat or drink. Skin cancers of the lip most frequently occur in fair-skinned men older than age 50. The lower lip is about 12 times more likely to be affected, owing to its greater exposure to sunlight.

“If you’re out and about or have a tendency to lick your lips, having a lip balm with SPF with you to reapply is a must,” notes Dr. Lucas.

The tops of your feet

A thick layer of dead skin cells protects the soles of our feet against the sun’s ultraviolet light. But the other side of your feet faces the sun directly when you’re wearing flip-flops and other skin-baring shoes. That makes this area especially vulnerable to the sun’s rays.

“Imagine standing in line at an amusement park or watching a game outdoors and the amount of sun exposure on these areas,” illustrates Dr. Lucas. “Burns are common but preventable.”

Advertisement

Your scalp

Your hair is only so-so protection against the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Your scalp — especially if you’re bald and in the parts of your hair — directly faces the sun, much like the tops of your feet. If you don’t want to wear a hat, be sure to put on some sunscreen.

“It may make your hair greasy and goopy, but you need that layer of coverage actually touching the skin,” says Dr. Lucas. “You may prefer a gel-based sunscreen to cover and protect this area more effectively. The most effective way to protect the scalp is to wear a broad-brimmed hat.”

How to apply sunscreen

Sunscreens are very effective when used properly. Follow these guidelines to get the most protection:

  • Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen (UVA and UVB protection), water-resistant sunscreen with at least 30 SPF. The number indicates how well the product protects from the burning rays of the sun.
  • Apply the sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes before you go outdoors. If you wait to apply sunscreen until you hit the beach, your perspiration makes your sunscreen less effective.
  • Reapply sunscreen every two hours while you’re outdoors, even if the product’s label says “all day.” Reapply sunscreen if you’re getting a lot of sun, swimming or perspiring heavily.
  • Cover all exposed areas — like the ones we’ve named here — including your face, neck and the back of your hands.
  • Apply a generous layer of sunscreen. Smooth it on rather than rubbing it in. It takes 1 ounce of sunscreen, which is a shot glass or golf ball amount, to cover an adult’s body.
  • Apply sunscreen under makeup.

Wearing sunscreen is very important for protecting your skin from cancer. And it should be easy to find the right formula for you, whether that’s a spray, gel or lotion (maybe skip the powder sunscreen).

“You’re in control of your skin and can minimize your risk of developing skin cancer and looking older by consistently applying your sunscreen,” encourages Dr. Lucas. “An ounce of prevention is worth a ton of cure.”

Related Articles

A vaccine syringe in front of a passport for international travel.
December 5, 2023
Which Vaccines Are Required To Travel?

Plan early — getting the right vaccines can help you stay healthy on your travels

Person overheated lying on chair on the beach; heart rythym next to him
December 5, 2023
How the Heat Can Affect Your Heart

Sizzling temperatures force your heart to work much harder

nocovaine needle entering mouth with dental mirror
December 4, 2023
How Long Does Novocaine Last?

The numbness and tingling should wear off in about two hours

bearded man sitting crosslegged holding clock in one hand, calendar in other
December 4, 2023
Are Bare Minimum Mondays Good for Your Mental Health?

Rethinking your Mondays might make the ‘Sunday scaries’ a thing of the past

A sad couple standing on each side of a large broken heart
December 4, 2023
Yes, You Can Die From a Broken Heart — But No, It’s Not Likely at All

The emotional toll of loss and other strong emotions can have life-threatening physical effects

Closeup of shingles virus presenting on shoulder of person
December 4, 2023
Is the Shingles Vaccine Worthwhile?

It’s 97% effective in preventing shingles in people between the ages of 50 and 69

Notes taped to window of possible new year's resolutions with hand in foreground holding marker.
December 1, 2023
How To Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions

Pick specific, measurable goals, but also be open to changing them if need be

person holding a thermometer with stress thought bubbles above head
December 1, 2023
Yes, There Is Such a Thing as Stress Sickness

From nausea, weight gain and eczema, stress can affect your immune system in many ways

Trending Topics

group of hands holding different beverages
November 14, 2023
10 Myths About Drinking Alcohol You Should Stop Repeating

Coffee won’t cure a hangover and you definitely shouldn’t mix your cocktail with an energy drink

Person applies moisturizer as part of their skin care routine after a shower.
November 10, 2023
Korean Skin Care Routines: What You Need To Know

Focus on the philosophy — replenishing and respecting your skin — not necessarily the steps

glass of cherry juice with cherries on table
November 8, 2023
Sleepy Girl Mocktail: What’s in It and Does It Really Make You Sleep Better?

This social media sleep hack with tart cherry juice and magnesium could be worth a try

Ad