Sunscreen belongs in every bag during the summer. Nevertheless, things that weaken protection happen quickly in everyday life: too little cream, applying it too late, forgetting to reapply, or not renewing it after swimming. Especially with children, at the outdoor pool, in the garden, and on trips, a simple routine is more helpful than complicated rules.
Important beforehand: Sunscreen is only one part of sun protection. Shade, clothing, sun hats, sunglasses, and breaks during the midday sun are just as important.
1. Using too little sunscreen
The most common mistake is the amount. Many apply sunscreen very sparingly because it is sticky or shiny. As a result, the stated sun protection factor is often not achieved in everyday life. It is better to apply it generously and not forget particularly exposed areas such as the nose, ears, neck, shoulders, tops of the feet, and backs of the hands.
For children, it is practical to apply cream to body areas one after the other: face, neck, arms, legs, back, stomach. This way, you are less likely to miss spots.
2. Applying only in the blazing sun
Sun protection should not start on the picnic blanket or right at the edge of the pool. It is better to apply it at home or in the shade before going out. This gives you more peace and quiet, and the cream doesn't end up half on your towel, car seat, or clothes.
For families, a fixed sequence helps: apply cream, get dressed, pack water bottles, head out.
3. Not reapplying after swimming
Water, drying off, sweating, and friction reduce protection. Even water-resistant sunscreen must be renewed after swimming, drying off, or heavy sweating. Reapplying does not extend the time in the sun indefinitely; it only restores protection.
A timer on your phone or a small reminder in your beach bag can help, especially when children are playing and no one is watching the clock.
4. Underestimating clouds
UV radiation can reach the skin even when the sky is cloudy. A cool breeze or clouds feel harmless, but they do not replace protection. Especially at the outdoor pool, in the mountains, by the water, or on bright surfaces, the exposure can be higher than you think.
Anyone who is outside for a longer period should therefore not decide based on temperature alone, but on the UV situation and the duration of the stay.
5. Forgetting sun hats and clothing
Sunscreen is not an invitation to stay in the sun for hours. Clothing provides reliable protection if it is woven tightly enough and covers the skin. For children, a sun hat, shirt, and shade are often more practical for everyday life than constantly reapplying cream.
In the stroller, at the playground, and at the outdoor pool, shade is particularly important. Direct midday sun should be avoided if possible.
6. Continuing to use old sunscreen uncritically
Sunscreen from the previous year may still be fine, but it doesn't have to be. If it has separated, smells different, is clumpy, or was exposed to high heat for a long time, it is better to replace it. Products should be stored in a cool place and not left permanently in a hot car.
It is practical to check all tubes at the beginning of the season and have a small sunscreen ready for your bag, car, or trips.
7. Forgetting lips, ears, and tops of feet
It is often the small areas that turn red in the evening: ears, scalp, neck, lips, shoulders, tops of the feet, and hands. Especially with sandals and flip-flops, the tops of the feet are quickly forgotten.
For lips, there are lip balms with sun protection factor. For the scalp, a hat, cap, or scarf usually helps better than cream.
8. Taking sun protection seriously only after a sunburn
If the skin is already red, it needs a break. Then it's time to get out of the sun, cool down, drink water, and protect the skin. In case of severe pain, blisters, fever, circulatory problems, or sunburn in babies and toddlers, medical advice should be sought.
It is better to be consistent before the first sunburn. That is less effort than a painful evening afterwards.
My simple sun protection routine
- Store sunscreen visibly by your bag, front door, or swimwear.
- Apply cream in the shade or at home before leaving.
- Consciously check your nose, ears, neck, shoulders, hands, and tops of your feet.
- Reapply after swimming, sweating, and drying off.
- Avoid the midday sun if possible.
- Keep sun hats, shirts, sunglasses, and shade in mind.
- Sort out old or suspicious sunscreen.
This makes sun protection less of a discussion and more of a habit. That is exactly what makes it much easier in everyday family life.
Caution
- Which sun protection for children?
- 10 tips for the heat
- Removing sunscreen stains
- The Best Game Ideas for the Beach or Outdoor Pool
- Travel checklist: What do you need on vacation?
- Planning summer holidays 2026
Sources and further information
- BMLUK: Recommendations for protection against UV radiation
- Federal Office for Radiation Protection: Sunscreen
- Sun without regret: Brochure on proper sun protection
- Climate Human Health: Tips for UV protection
Article image: AI-generated symbolic image.
