Spot No. 1: The Tops of Your Feet
Sandal season is here, which means ample exposure of a typically hidden areas, like your feet. I suggest coating the tops of your feet with a mineral-based block, explains [Deanne Robinson, MD, FAAD and  founder of Modern Dermatology of Connecticut] (https://www.moderndermct.com/deanne-mraz-robinson). To prevent burning, make sure to re-apply with a mineral-based spray or cream focusing on the feet, paying special attention to in between the toes.

Product Pick: IPKN Big Apple Sun Cream SPF 50 ($24)

Spot No: 2: Around Your Armpits
Getting sunburned (or sun damage in general) is truly the pits! For full protection, always apply sunscreen to your entire body and allow to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before getting dressed. Its really all about attention to detail, adds Carlos A. Charles, MD, board-certified dermatologist and founder of Derma di Colore in New York City. People tend to miss the hard to reach areas such as the center of the back and even more obvious areas such as the upper chest. His advice? If you are applying sunscreen for a day of outdoor activities, when at all possible, have someone help you with it! Its both efficient and can be fun!

Product Pick: Jack Black Oil-Free Sun Guard SPF45 ($21)

Spot No.3: The Back of Your Hands
You know the saying: the hands reveal your age first, making frequent SPF application is even more crucial. Pick a hand cream with sunscreen  built-in, covering your wrists, entire hand, and in between each finger. Also, keep a bottle handy to reapply after you wash your hands. Drive a ton? Consider physical protection to really up the ante. [ManiGlovz] (https://maniglovz.com/) are UPF 50 gloves and are such a great way to achieve amazing protection, adds Dr. Robinson.

Product Pick: [Supergoop! Forever Young Hand Cream SPF 40] (https://www.birchbox.com/product/10274) ($12)

Spot No.4: Your Eyelids and Undereye Area 
Heres a fun fact: the skin on your eyelids can get burnt just like the rest of your body. So yep, falling asleep in the sun is still an absolute no-no. To avoid irritation, find products specifically designed for this delicate spot, like eye creams or eye shadows with SPF incorporated.

Product Pick: [Clarins Mission Perfection Eye Broad Spectrum SPF 15] (https://www.birchbox.com/product/31959)($50)

Spot No.5: Over and Behind Your Ears
Make the most of your daily moisturizer by choosing one that contains SPF 30 or higher. Dr. Charles recommends applying before you leave the house in the morning (and reapplying during lunchtime if you plan on stepping out). Use the same sunscreen you apply to your face and extend it on, behind, and within the ears aka conchal bowls.

Product Pick: Supergoop! Everyday Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50 ($32)

Spot No.6: Your Lips 
Not all lip care products are created equal, and skimping on SPF can result in a painful lesson. Switch to a lip balm with SPF 15 or higher to help protect your delicate dermis (aka your mouth) from year-round sun exposure. Avoid super shiny glosses that can ultimately result in nasty sunburns.

Product Pick: Kiehls Butterstick Lip Treatment SPF 25 ($22)

Spot No.7: Your Hair and Scalp 
Surprise, even your scalp needs protection! Seek out a multi-tasking oil that protects against UV rays or lightweight spray to coat exposed skin and hair. Work into your routine by applying to wet or dry hair, and re-apply every few hours if you are sitting at the beach or pool. Even better? Rock a hat!

Product Pick: Bumble and bumble. Hairdresser's Invisible Oil UV Protective Dry Oil Finishing Spray ($34)

Spot No.8: The Back of Your Knees
Like your armpits, your knees are often neglected when it comes to proper sun protection. But standing up versus sitting down can eliminate this faux pas. This helps to prevent missing areas under or around bathing suit lines and helps to give more uniform coverage, explains Dr. Robinson. I suggest starting at the top of the leg and working your way down for consistency and so as not to miss areas.

Product Pick: Coola Classic Body Sunscreen Tropical Coconut SPF 30 ($32)

Spot No.9: Behind Your Neck 
Typically, people will coat their face and body in adequate SPF and skip their neck. As we age, the neck (like our hands) shows neglect first. To circumvent, start with a solid coating of mineral-based, cream or lotion sunscreen, then dust on a powder version on for touch-ups. Sun protection is crucial for the health of your skin, explains Dr. Charles. Not only does help prevent various skin cancers, also assists with minimizing gradual textural changes, reducing visible pore size, and hyper-pigmentation.

Product Pick: [Ursa Major Force Field Daily Defense Lotion] (https://www.birchbox.com/product/27940) ($54) + [DERMA E Sun Protection Mineral Powder SPF 30] ( https://www.birchbox.com/product/37228) ($21.95)

From your eyelids to the tops of your feet, we remembered all the places most people outright skip. 

Sun protection is an **everyday** thing, not just a summer thing (unfortunately, so are sun damage and sunburns!) Most of you have heard that you need at least one ounce, or enough to fill a shot glass, to cover the bodyyet, many of us still skip out on protecting a few key areas. We spoke to two dermatologist to give us the rundown on the most commonly forgotten areas, and the perfect products to use to combat future sun damage. 

9 Places People Forget to Apply Sunscreen

UVA rays, or aging rays, cause wrinkles and age spots. UVB rays, or burning rays, cause sunburn. But both of them can lead to skin cancer. Even the World Health Organization has declared UV radiation from the sun a known carcinogen.

Skin Cancer is the #1 Form of Cancer in the United States

And UV radiation from the sun is the #1 cause of skin cancer. (Remember: Sunlight in the winter has the same effect on your skin as sunlight in the summer!) Regular sun exposure mainly causes basal and squamous cell skin cancers, which are highly curable, while frequent severe sunburns can cause melanoma, the more deadly form of the disease. Scheduling an annual skin screening with a board certified dermatologist is a great way to catch these early.

Exposure to the suns rays causes damage to the collagen, elastin, and cells in your skinthe stuff that, when broken down, leads to signs of aging like dark spots, fine lines, and textural changes. Broad spectrum SPF works by blocking UVA and UVB rays so that they cant reach the deeper layers of your skin. And though melanin-rich skin has some natural sun protection (up to SPF 13), lack of additional sunscreen coverage will lead to damage (SPF 30 is recommended).

You might want to sit down for this. A study in Dermatologic Surgery showed that using SPF 30 on your face for as little as 12 weeks may actually improve skin texture, clarity, and pigmentation. Its never too late, folks.

Dont fall into the trap of trusting SPF 100 (aka thinking you can stay in the sun all day without reapplying). In reality, SPF 30-50 blocks 98% of the suns rays. At best, anything higher makes a negligible difference, and at worst, it can provide a false sense of security. As a rule of thumb, always reapply SPF every two hours (aim to use a shot glass full to cover your whole body), or right after swimming.

A UV camera shows B Team members Bridget, Kima, Pooja, and Jamie what the naked eye can'tsun damage.

Youve heard it before:

Put on sunscreen before you go outside!
Wear SPF every day...even if its cloudy!
Reapply every two hours!

But without *really* seeing the effects the sun can have (hint: harmful ones), it can be all too easy to let daily skin protection fall by the wayside. We had [B Team](https://www.birchbox.com/thebteam) members Bridget, Kima, Pooja, and Jamie take a look at their skin under a special UV camera to see what the naked eye can'tsun damage. Watch the video to see their results and keep reading for 5 facts that may finally convince you to incorporate [SPF](https://www.birchbox.com/discover/skin/protect) into your skincare routine.

Sun Damage Exposed: Why SPF Really Matters

We're getting serious about sun safety! Tune in to hear dermatologist Dr. Michelle Henry debunk some myths about SPF and give tips for protecting your skin from the sun's damaging rays.

"Before this experience I rarely used SPF unless I was going to be spending the day outside at the park or beach, and when I did I would go straight for the waterproof sport 60+ formulas (getting it off at the end of the day was a doozy). I always thought the only effective type of formula was a lotion and so if I didn't apply it before my makeup it was a lost cause."

Ive never been one to consciously and purposely use products with SPF; as a woman of caribbean descent Ive never been inclined to. Ive always felt that my darker skin tone was meant to be exposed to the sun rays without having to worry about sun damage. It wasnt even in my mind to think about. Instead I would slather on oil and attract as much sun as I could to make my skin nice and tanned. With that said, I am also a very open-minded person, so I'm receptive to the idea of integrating it into my routine.

With our work cut out for us, we offered up some non-traditional formulas and here's what happened...

Primer: COOLA Classic SPF 30 Dawn Patrol Makeup Primer
This one's a no brainer. If you already use primer under your makeup, swap it out for this nourishing plant-infused formula with SPF 30. Mengly noted, So this is my first layer, and Im already putting something on that will protect me from the sun! It smells nice and goes on smooth. After wearing it all day, she did express that that she wished the formula had been a bit more hydrating. Pooja noted that with solutions like primers, there's now an easy way to wear [SPF] everyday.

Lip + cheek color: Supergoop! Perk Up! Lip & Cheek Treat SPF 40
In our eyes, any protection is good protection. Mengly found her favorite in this makeup-sunscreen hybrid. This has become one of my favorite products. The cool thing about this is that youre replacing something that's already in your daily routine with something that has added SPF. It's a really pretty hue and goes on super super sheer, so I love that.

Lip balm: Kiehls Butterstick Lip Treatment SPF 25
When Pooja tested this popular tinted balm, she noted it "really does feel like butter on your lips," and actually double-checked with the team that there was even SPF in it! If youre a lover of lip balm, this one is an easy substitute to protect your lips from the sun.

Tinted moisturizer/BB cream: Dr. Jart+ Premium Beauty Balm SPF 45
If youre already using foundation or a tinted moisturizer, why not kill two birds with one stone and add some SPF protection. Menglys favorite? A tinted moisturizer with SPF. This is for people that like to still have a natural look, thats my motto. I like to even out the skin tone but I dont like to look like I have makeup on!

Setting spray: COOLA SPF 30 Organic Makeup Setting Spray
Already put on a full face and realized you forgot your SPF? Spritz this on and you're all set...literally! This multitasker adds protection and helps your makeup last all day. Poojas thoughts after day one: SPF and a setting spray? Thats great. Yesterday it helped my makeup stay on all day. I went to work, dinner, everything, and [my makeup] stayed on!

By the end of the week, we're happy to report that Pooja and Mengly were much more open-minded to the concept of incorporating SPF into their routines. Final thoughts, ladies?

"The most fun part of this challenge was figuring out how to incorporate SPF in a way that actually fits into my life. Since I previously only used lotions, I was limiting myself in opportunities to layer it into my routine. Now with solutions like primers and setting sprays I've discovered easy alternatives to wear it everyday while still having the heavy hitters like mineral sticks and body sprays for the weekends outside!"

"I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised with some of the products I tried. Specifically, Supergoop!'s lip & cheek balm (my fave)."

Use it every day (rain or shine!) with these undercover sunscreen stars.

If you've followed Birchbox throughout the years, hopefully we've impressed upon you the importance of wearing sunscreen every. single. day (not just in the summer!). Pop quiz: Whats the #1 anti-aging skincare product worth adding to your routine? No, it's not a super expensive serum; it's [SPF](https://www.birchbox.com/magazine/article/the-1-anti-aging-product-worth-adding-to-your-routine).

We know that incorporating SPF into your daily beauty regimen is easier said than done, but with so many types of formulas offering sun protection these days, it doesn't *always* have to be a dreaded extra step.

We decided to call upon [B Team](https://www.birchbox.com/thebteam) members Pooja and Mengly to test drive some staff- and customer-favorite formulas to see if we could convince them to make SPF a daily staple. Let's just say we had a little convincing to do...

How to Incorporate SPF into Your Everyday Routine

Want further proof? Studies have shown that using sunscreen regularly delays skin aging, says Shah. Another key word: Regularly. While slathering it on in the summer when youre at the beach or pool is great, using it every single daythats 365 days a year, rain or shineis what will yield those real anti-aging benefits. Keep in mind that the suns UVA rays (those that cause all those unwanted signs of aging) are the same strength year-round, and can even penetrate through glass. When choosing a sunscreen, Shah recommends looking for a broad-spectrum formula with at least SPF 30but make sure its one you actually like, so that wearing it every day is enjoyable rather than a chore youre likely to skip. Dont yet have a fave? Consider any one of these seven standout options.

COOLA SPF 30 Organic Makeup Setting Spray

Along with simply applying sunscreen in the first place, Shah points out that reapplying is also key. In theory, the goal is to do so every two hours, especially if youre staying outdoors. This multitasker makes that easier than ever by delivering sun protection with each mist in addition to locking in your makeupa great choice for midday touchups.

Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 40

Clear, oil-free, and featherweight, this formula is so undetectable, youll forget you have it on. Plus, not only does it shield your skin from the sun, it also guards against blue light emitted by electronic devices, so youll be protected both indoors and out.

Dr. Jart+ Cicapair Tiger Grass Color Correcting Treatment SPF 30

Dont be alarmed by the mint green hue of this cream. Massage it into skin and watch it transform into a beige moisturizer that quickly adjusts to your skin tone. That green tint works to counteract redness and the added SPF works to protect your complexion from the sun (so that it doesnt get red to begin with).

MDSolarSciences Mineral Crme Broad Spectrum SPF 50 UVA-UVB Sunscreen

With only mineral-based sun blockers, this is a perfect pick for anyone with sensitive or acne-prone skin. And unlike lots of other mineral formulas weve tried, it wont leave your skin white or chalky. The silky, non-greasy finish is just an added bonus.

Cult-classic, fan-favorite, best-sellerits been called all of these things for good reason. An equally solid moisturizer and sunscreen option, its especially ideal on mornings when its just not in the cards to use multiple products.

Paula's Choice RESIST Smoothing Primer Serum SPF 30

How much do we love do-it-all products? Let us count the ways. This one in particular delivers a daily dose of SPF, has antioxidants to fight environmental damage, and blurs the look of lines, wrinkles, and other complexion imperfections. And lets not forget that it does its intended duty as its name suggests, acting as a primer to create a supersmooth base for makeup.

Perricone MD No Foundation Foundation Serum Broad Spectrum SPF 30

Its hard to decide whether this product is skincare with makeup benefits or makeup with skincare benefits. Lets just say you get the best of both worlds: anti-aging neuropeptides to improve the look of pores and lines, a super subtle tint, and buildable coverage. Non-irritating mineral sunscreen is the cherry on top.

It's not trendy, but it's absolutely necessary.

Lets not beat around the bush here: were talking about sunscreen. Thats rightits not the newest trendy ingredient in skincare, its good ol fashioned sun protection that will keep your skin from starting to show signs of aging. Sun exposure is the numero uno external factor thats guaranteed to make you look older than you are. It causes fine lines, textural changes, dryness, discoloration and spots, and sagging, explains New York City cosmetic dermatologist Dr. Sejal Shah, founder of [Smarter Skin Dermatology](http://www.smarterskindermatology.com/). We know that sunscreen is the best way to protect against this damage, making it the most important anti-aging product, she adds. Key word: Most.

The #1 Anti-Aging Product Worth Adding to Your Routine

Anyone whos ever wasted an hour sitting half-naked in her bathroom trying not to smudge an application of self-tanner knows that the worst part of getting a faux glow is the waiting game. But this summer, our at-home tanning game is getting a convenient update thanks to St. Tropez Gradual Tan In Shower Lotion: Instead of making you sit awkwardly still for 60-odd minutes (talk about Naked and Afraid), St. Tropezs new formula allows you to tan in a place you were already planning on being anywaythe showerin just three, three-minute applications spread over a few days. Too good to be true, you say? We had our own Lorelei take the tanner for a test drive in advance of her friends wedding in Cape Cod:

Despite my concerns, my first application was surprisingly easy! The instructions are as follows: After washing your body, turn off the shower and apply the product all over in circular motions, wait three minutes, then rinse. (The hardest part was setting the timer on my phone to make sure I waited the full three minutes before rinsing.) Some online reviews I read warned that water splatters on your legs and armswhich where hard to avoid with my wet haircould lead to spotty areas. I havent seen any streaks, but just to be safe Ill definitely bring a clip to hold up my hair tomorrow!

My second in-shower application was even smoother than the day before. I love that the gradual nature of this tan means I dont have to worry about applying it perfectlyI was initially worried that there would be a line on my neck where the lotion stopped, but it looks completely natural. Maybe Im imagining things, but Im already looking tanner.

After three applications Im seeing a big difference in the color of my skinespecially on my legs. Its developing really naturally so it doesnt look like I have a fake tan! Im heading to a wedding in Cape Cod this weekend, and Im so happy I dont have to pay for a spray tan.

At the end of my three-day trial, I can honestly say I plan on substituting the in-shower lotion for my special-occasion airbrush tans. I like that its not a dramatic transformation; instead, this is about getting subtle, natural-looking color. (On the day before my friends wedding, I applied the lotion to my face, which gave me a barely-there glow without making my complexion look orange.) This is definitely staying in my shower throughout the fall and winter!

Skip the waiting game and get your faux glow in the time it takes to wash your hair.

If youve ever been on a tropical vacation that involved margaritas, you might have heard of lime disease. The skin condition, officially called phytophotodermatitis (and not to be confused with the tick-borne Lyme disease), occurs when the juice from limes or other citrus fruits reacts with sunlight on the skin to cause irritation and even second-degree burns, often in a dripping pattern on the hands and arms.

Im pretty sure Ive experienced lime disease myself. Last summer, after a weekend of sipping margaritas in Montauk, a particularly bad flare up caused the skin around my lips and eyes to sting, swell, and turn bright pink. Then, it happened again at a friend's recent bachelorette party in Miami: After a day of drinking Coronas with lime by our hotels pool, my lips felt like they were on firedespite reapplying SPF 15 lip balm like it was my job. After ruling out sunscreen, makeup, and allergies, I realized the cause may have been my preference for citrusy drinks.

Now Im careful to wash my hands (and avoid my eyes completely) after touching lemons and limes, and I always wipe off the rim of my glass or bottle before sipping. Sunscreen may have been what saved me from the severe blisters that others have developed after a run-in with phytophotodermatitis, like the five California girls who were sent to the hospital a couple years ago after juicing limes in the sun. Turns out the perfect pairing for my beverage of choice isn't just a side of chips and guac, it's also an easy-to-apply sunscreen like Supergoop! Antioxidant-Infused Sunscreen Mist with Vitamin C and an SPF-infused lip balm like Coolas Liplux.

Before you pack your cooler for one of the biggest beach weekends of the year, consider what youre using to garnish your drinks.


##If you have dry skin
Those rough patches are not going to be any less dry after baking on the beach. To give parched skin some extra hydrating love, try Shiseidos Ultimate Sun Protection Cream SPF 50+ wetforce. The antioxidant-rich formula moisturizes while its Superveil-UV 360 technology makes it more effective after you get wet or sweat.


##If you have acne-prone skin
When the struggle of clogged pores is real, any lightweight, hypoallergenic sunblock is a life (and skin) saver. MDSolarSciences Mineral Crme SPF 50 Broad Spectrum UVA-UVB Sunscreen goes on with a matte finish and is formulated without parabens or synthetic fragrances, which can stop up pores. The gentle, nongreasy formula is also safe to use if you have rosacea.


##If you have normal skin
Skin thats not too dry and not too oily deserves a sunscreen that doesnt weigh it down and can be applied every day, like COOLA's Classic SPF 30 Cucumber Moisturizer for Face. Organic ingredients including strawberry extract moisturize, protect and tighten already-balanced skin. And the cucumber scent is totally poolside appropriate.


##If you have hyperpigmented skin
Soaking up the sun amps up the production of melanin, the pigment that causes those dark spots. To make sure hyperpigmentation doesnt get worse (and to prevent more discoloration), use a sunscreen with mica minerals like Supergoop! Daily Correct CC Cream SPF 35+. If diffuses light and evens out spots while giving you subtle tinted coverage.


##If you have sensitive skin
When your skin gets irritated easily (nevermind after spending hours in the sun), give it some T.L.C. with a gentle formula like cotz Sensitive SPF 40. The mineral complex blends in sheer with a transparent Zinc Oxide layer of protectionjust remember to apply 15 minutes before you go outside to give it enough time to sink in.

Theres a sunscreen for everyone under the, er, sun. Figure out which one is best suited to your complexion.  

Shopping for sunscreen can prompt a major case of analysis paralysis. Its not just about the Sun Protection Factor anymoresome formulas hydrate, others have a built-in tint. Whats the preferred option for your particular skin?! We help you find the SPF thats best for your face and body, while keeping you burn-free.

Everyone knows that wearing sunscreen is a must. Still, even the best of us fall victim to surprise sunburn.  Make sure to follow this checklist of easy to forget spots to prevent painful burns. Whether youre having a long beach day or just taking a lunchtime stroll in the park., theyre worth remembering.

Need a couple more reasons to get serious about SPF this summer? Watch our sunburn stories and learn about the top 6 reasons to wear sunscreen.

Think youre ready for a day out in the sun? Dont forget these easy to miss spots with your sunscreen. 

We would love to spend all of our summer hours on the beach, but you can still get a beachy waves hairstyle, even if you arent literally hitting the waves. Our social media manager Juliette just visited the Frederic Fekkai Salon in Soho to test drive their new Soleil collectionproducts designed to protect, nourish, and strengthen sun-exposed hair. Watch the video to learn how to get your own sexy beach waves and see Fekkais Soleil products in action.

Hair mist or oil

Tousling spray

Curling Wand

Hair dryer with diffuser

There is no point in doing your hair if it is just going to fry in the sun. Prep with a UV-protecting mist like Fekkais Soleil Beach Waves Tousling Spray, which will to prevent your color from harsh sun damage, and create the ideal texture for beachy waves. Spritz this all over your hair and scrunch up from the bottom.

Use a diffuser to scrunch hair into messy waves or curls as your dry.

For added body, spray a little more of the tousling spray into the palm of your hand and scrunch hair at the ends. You can also wrap sections of hair around your finger for extra definition.

Separate your hair into two sections. Starting with the bottom of your hair, take small section of hair and wrap around the barrel of your curling wand. (Hold the barrel vertically, facing down.) Then let the hair go and hold the curl in your hand allowing it to set. Repeat and alternate the direction of every other curl for maximum texture. Continue to do this with all of your hair.

To complete your beachy waves, youll want to grab Fekkais Pre Soleil Hair Mist to add shine and take care of any flyaways for a polished-but-not-too-polished look.

Learn how to get the perfect beachy waves, just in time for summer. 

How to Get Waves: Beachy, Voluminous Hair

Hey there!

9 Places People Forget to Apply Sunscreen

Sun Damage Exposed: Why SPF Really Matters

SPF Decoded with Dr. Michelle Henry

How to Incorporate SPF into Your Everyday Routine

The #1 Anti-Aging Product Worth Adding to Your Routine

Now You Can Get a Tan While You Shower

Is Your Cocktail Causing a Sunburn?

Find the Best SPF for Your Skin Type

Sunscreen Tips to Avoid Sunburn

How to Get Waves: Beachy, Voluminous Hair