Don't Spend Your Beach Vacation With Burns — Apply SPF Right

Just because you're on the beach somewhere warm for the holidays (yes, we're jealous) doesn't mean that your SPF routine should go on vacation, too. When skin hasn't seen UV rays in months, it's even more important to slather on sunscreen as you're likely to burn. But the most diligent SPF-wearers might forget about certain unusual spots that can leave you with awkward and uncomfortable scorches (sports bra "tan," anyone?). So after your thoroughly rub down your shoulders, back, neck, arms, legs, etc, make sure to take care of these seven places before you let your feet even touch the sand.

  1. Upper ears: Peeling, blistery ears? Ouch. Believe what you hear: if it happens one time, you'll never let it happen again.
  2. Hair part: The top of your head is often the first place the sun's rays hit. Be sure to apply sunscreen to any exposed skin on the scalp — especially your part. Better yet, wear a cute straw hat.
  3. Under arms: Falling asleep in the sun with arms stretched behind your head leaves plenty of exposed skin. Pay close attention to the back and underside of the arms to avoid an unpleasant burn that could leave you immobile.
  4. On the tops of feet: Wading in the water is nice. Burning the tops of your feet while wading in the water is not. Use protection.
  5. Eyelids: A burn on the eyelids and brow bone area is harsh, and unless your sunglasses have UV protection, make sure you don't miss this delicate area.
  6. Under straps: Straps and clothing/swimsuits shift as you move your body throughout the day. Take extraspecial care to apply sunscreen not only to the areas around your clothing and swimsuits, but directly underneath them, too.
  7. Hairline: Warm-weather hairstyles often call for pulled-back ponytails and braids. A swipe of SPF around the hairline will prevent strange and painful burns around the perimeter of your face.