How to reapply sunscreen (and the spots you’re probably forgetting)

No matter how religiously we apply sunscreen, certain parts of the body slip through the cracks. Ears, eyelids, the hairline, lips, even the backs of hands—these zones face daily UV exposure yet rarely get covered. And in India’s high UV index, missing them isn’t just a cosmetic issue.

“These peripheral zones get constant sun exposure and minimal protection,” says Dr Sravya Tipirneni, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetologist & Trichologist at Manipal Hospital in Bangalore. “Ears and eyelids are especially high-risk due to their thin skin, lack of subcutaneous fat, and frequent neglect. They’re also common sites for non-melanoma skin cancers.”

Dr Debeshi, Medical Head & Founder of Lueur Aesthetics, adds that many people assume the sun only hits the central face. “In reality, these SPF blind spots often get as much, if not more, exposure.”

And even if you nail your morning application, it’s not enough. “The UV index in most Indian cities peaks between 10 AM and 4 PM,” says Tipirneni. “Between sweat, humidity, pollution and friction from clothing or bags, sunscreen breaks down faster than people realise.” Think of SPF like hydration; one morning dose won’t last you the day.

The SPF checklist most of us fail

Ears: Front and back, including the helix and antihelix. Signs of damage: rough patches, freckles, scaly spots.

Neck & Décolletage: The front, sides, and upper chest are often exposed by clothing. Signs: crepey texture, uneven tone, vertical lines.

Scalp: Part lines, thinning hair, or bare crowns are unprotected. Signs: redness, flaking, tender sunburn.

Lips: Easily damaged, especially without SPF balm. Signs: dryness, peeling, fine lines.

Eyelids: Thin and sensitive, often reliant on sunglasses or makeup spillover. Signs: pigmentation, premature wrinkling.

Hands: Constantly exposed, often the first to show sun damage. Signs: brown spots, thinning skin, visible veins.

How to reapply sunscreen without starting over

When it comes to technique, glide your first layer, pat during reapplication. And if makeup is in the mix, formats matter. Dermatologists agree that sprays and powders can make top-ups easier, but they work best as supporting players, not your main source of protection. “The key is quantity and proper coverage; skin should actually look and feel like it’s been protected,” says Dr Tipirneni.