Debunking Top Sunscreen Myths: Essential Facts You Need to Know

Sunscreen is essential for sun protection. Despite its usefulness, there are numerous sunscreen misconceptions too. Several sunscreen facts and myths are doing the rounds. When protecting our skin from the sun's harmful rays, it is important to know what's true and what's not.

We are going to debunk some sunscreen myths in this blog.

So, let's get started.

Sunscreen Is Not Always Necessary

One of the biggest sunscreen myths is that you do not need to apply it daily. Many people believe that you need sunscreen only when your entire body is exposed to the sun, such as on the beach or the pool. The truth is that sun exposure can be harmful regardless of how much your body is exposed.

That's why you should apply sunscreen even when indoors. Yes, you read that right. It is very easy for harmful ultraviolet rays to penetrate through the clouds and through your windows to harm your skin. If you are spending a lot of time exposing yourself to window-filtered sun, you are putting your skin at harm without sunscreen.

Tanning Is Not Possible When Sunscreen Is Applied

Next in line of the sunscreen myths that we are about to bust is tanning. You may tan even if you are wearing sunscreen. Sunscreens protect you from harmful rays of the sun, but it does not entirely prevent your skin from darkening.

Tanning is your skin's natural defense mechanism in response to exposure to ultraviolet rays. When UV rays penetrate your skin, they stimulate melanin production. Melanin is the pigment responsible for the color of your skin, hair, and eyes. Melanin production increases when your body is exposed to UV rays, darkening the skin, which we call a tan.

Want to avoid tanning? Cover up with a large hat and long clothing.

All Sunscreens Have the Same Qualities

Many believe all sunscreens are the same and do the same job. Let us tell you, it's one of the most common sunscreen myths out there. Different sunscreens use different ingredients, and they all offer different levels of sun protection.

Broadly speaking, there are two types of sunscreens: physical sunscreen and chemical sunscreen.

Physical or mineral sunscreens sit on the surface of your skin, protecting your skin like a shield. Typically, the active ingredients used in these sunscreens are zinc oxide and titanium oxide.

Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing ultraviolet radiation, converting it into heat, and then releasing it from the skin. Most chemical sunscreens contain carbon-based compounds, such as avobenzone and oxybenzone.

You should apply chemical sunscreen 15 to 30 minutes before sun exposure to give it enough time to absorb into the skin. Physical sunscreens are recommended for those with sensitive skin, children, and people with skin concerns such as melasma.

Sun Damage Can't Happen on Windy, Cloudy or Cool Days

Do you skip sunscreen on cool or cloudy days? If you do, stop now. Clouds are just water vapor, they do not block UV rays. And, UV rays are present even on cold days.

One of the myths about sun protection is that if you don't feel the heat, there is no need to apply sunscreen. Remember, the sun's UV rays cause skin damage and not temperature.

So, whether it is windy, cloudy, or cool, always apply sunscreen as you would on any hot day.

People with Dark Skin Don't Need Sunscreen

Some people think that since dark-skinned people have more melanin in their skin, they don't need sunscreen. But that's just a myth. They need sunscreen just like anybody else.

Melanin may provide some natural sun protection, but not a great deal. People with dark skin may still suffer from sun damage, developing wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and other skin concerns.

A study by the American Academy of Dermatology noted that the skin cancer survival rate was lowest among people with dark skin, including African Americans, Native Americans, Asian Americans, and Pacific Islanders. Most of these people are diagnosed late because of the color of their skin.

In short, applying sunscreen daily is a must regardless of the complexion of your skin.

One Application of Sunscreen Lasts All Day

Yet another misconception about sunscreens is that one application is enough for the day. The truth is sunscreen breaks down over time in the sun and becomes ineffective. It is recommended to reapply your sunscreen every 2 to 4 hours for maximum protection. Even if you are using waterproof sunscreen, remember to reapply it every couple of hours. The same goes for sunscreens with high SPF. Reapplication is a must throughout the day.

If the Makeup Contains SPF Protection, Sunscreens Aren't Necessary

It is not possible to end this blog without addressing an SPF myth.

Nowadays, a lot of makeup products like foundations and compacts come with SPF. Does that mean you can skip your sunscreen?

Not at all.

The truth about makeup is that you don't use it on all areas exposed to the sun. So, you don't get the necessary protection.

When it comes to moisturizers and lotions with SPF, you may apply them all over the body, but sunscreen breaks down after a while.

So, it's best to wear sunscreen under your makeup to keep your skin protected from the sun. For reapplication, opt for a stick sunscreen or a spray sunscreen that can be applied over your makeup.

Conclusion

Understanding the truth about sunscreen myths can help you use sunscreen more effectively. There is a wide variety to choose from. Use one that suits your skin. But remember, use your sunscreen daily, whether indoors or outdoors.