Daily sunscreen use: dermatologist shares 5 key habits that protect your skin year-round

Skin cancer remains the most common malignancy in the United States, and statistics indicate that one in five residents will face the disease by age 70. Against that backdrop, dermatologist Dr. Adam Friedman, chair of dermatology at the George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, outlined practical guidelines designed to make sun protection as routine as brushing teeth.

Make sunscreen a non-negotiable part of the morning routine

Only 17 percent of U.S. adults report applying sunscreen every day, according to a 2024 survey of 2,200 people. Friedman argues that the practice should be viewed with the same urgency as dental hygiene because skin, the body’s largest organ, requires consistent care to minimize cancer risk and premature aging. He recommends applying a broad-spectrum product of at least SPF 30 before leaving the house, even on overcast days.

Don’t overlook ears, eyelids and lips

Commonly missed spots—eyelids, ears and lips—are particularly vulnerable to ultraviolet damage. The eyelid’s thin skin offers limited natural protection, while the top rim of the ear often receives direct sunlight. Lips lack the protective outer layer found on other skin surfaces, increasing susceptibility to harm. Friedman advises adding an extra dab for the ears and using an SPF lip balm to guard the mouth area.

Higher SPF offers a margin for real-world application

The American Academy of Dermatology recommends SPF 30 or higher, water resistance and broad-spectrum coverage. SPF 30 blocks about 97 percent of UVB radiation, and SPF 50 blocks roughly 98 percent. Because most individuals apply less than the ideal two milligrams of product per square centimeter of skin, Friedman favors higher SPF formulations to compensate for under-application. He notes that texture and price differences between SPF 30 and SPF 50 are minimal, so choosing the stronger option can enhance protection without added cost or discomfort.

Reapply every two hours during prolonged outdoor exposure

Dermatology guidelines call for reapplication every two hours, especially after swimming, sweating or towel drying. Friedman concedes that strict adherence can be difficult during an office day, but he urges deliberate reapplication when spending extended time outside. When lack of shade or physical activity accelerates sunscreen breakdown, reapplying becomes critical to maintain coverage.

Sun safety is a four-season commitment

UV radiation reaches the skin even when temperatures drop. Friedman links chronic, low-grade exposure—such as wintertime errands—to dermatoporosis, a condition marked by fragile, easily bruised skin that often appears on forearms later in life. He recommends maintaining daily use year-round to build a protective habit and reduce cumulative damage. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, consistent application during all seasons is a cornerstone of long-term skin health.

Friedman’s five recommendations—routine use, attention to overlooked areas, selecting higher SPF, timely reapplication and year-round commitment—form a straightforward framework. By integrating these steps, individuals can significantly lower cancer risk and slow visible aging linked to sun exposure.

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