8 common sunscreen mistakes upping your risk of deadly melanoma

Fun in the sun can have a dark side.Across the country, more than 88 million Americans get at least one sunburn every year — and while peeling skin might seem like a temporary annoyance, the damage can last a lifetime.Research shows that suffering five or more sunburns doubles your risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Even a single blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence can significantly raise the odds.Literally meaning “black tumor,” melanoma can show up as a new mole, a mole that’s changing or a spot with an uneven shape, border or color.It’s especially dangerous because it can quickly spread to other parts of the body if it’s not caught early.And it’s becoming increasingly common.

The Skin Cancer Foundation predicts 234,680 Americans will be diagnosed in 2026, a staggering 10.6% jump from last year.It’s not all bad news, though.

A mountain of research shows that wearing sunscreen every day can dramatically lower your risk of melanoma and other skin cancers.But simply slathering some on isn’t always enough.Dr.

Shari Lipner, a dermatologist at Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian, says people regularly make common sunscreen mistakes that leave them vulnerable to painful burns and potentially deadly skin cancer.Here are the eight biggest blunders she sees, plus three simple rules everyone should follow.Studies show most people apply just 20% to 60% of the amount of sunscreen needed for proper protection, leaving them more vulnerable not only to sunburn and skin cancer, but also premature aging.“You should be using 1 ounce to cover all your skin,” Lipner told The Post.That’s about how much can fit in a shot glass.You can also follow the “teaspoon rule”: one teaspoon for the face and neck, one for each arm, one for the chest and abdomen, one for the back and shoulders, and two for each leg.“Not reapplying enough is one of the most common mistakes that I see in my practice,” Lipner said...