Are You Applying Your Sunscreen Correctly? A new study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that misapplication of sunscreen is common. Specifically, the study found that when people used a moisturizer with SPF rather than a traditional sunscreen, the study participants "covered a smaller area of the face," making them more vulnerable to skin cancer. SPF stands for sun protection factor, and measures how well a sunscreen can block harmful UV rays that cause sunburn. More than 3 million people are diagnosed with skin cancer each year. The best way to prevent it is to apply sunscreen thoroughly. The study authors suggest to make sure to apply it to the eyelid region as well. And while the authors say that applying a moisturizer with SPF is better than nothing, "it should not be considered the equal of sunscreen."
