We know how much you love soaking up those warm sun rays, but we also know that protecting your skin is crucial to maintaining that radiant glow.

However, applying sunscreen before hitting the beach or lounging at the poolside often proves challenging. It’s time to unveil the sunscreen secrets and dispel misconceptions that may hinder our ability to make well-informed decisions about effective sun protection.

In a world where misinformation is just a click away, it’s easy to get swept up in the tide of myths and half-truths regarding sunscreen. Let’s face it: with so many products on the market. It’s no wonder we’re confused about fact and fiction. Additionally, the endless stream of advice from friends, family, and social media influencers only adds to the confusion.

Fear not, sun-lovers! We’re here to put your mind at ease and set the record straight. So grab your favourite wide-brimmed hat, sit back, and let us guide you through the maze of sunscreen secrets.

We’ll be busting myths, revealing truths, and ensuring that your days in the sun are as safe as they are enjoyable. So, let’s get started, shall we?

Myth #1: Sunscreen Can Cause Skin Cancer; hold up!

This couldn’t be further from the truth. Sunscreen protects your skin from the three main types of skin cancer: squamous, basal, and melanoma.

Furthermore, sunscreen’s protection is directly related to the amount of UV radiation exposure. So, the more sun exposure you have, the greater your risk of skin cancer, but sunscreen itself does not cause cancer.

Myth #2: Applying Sunscreen Causes Chemical Allergies

While it’s true that some people may experience an allergic reaction to certain ingredients in sunscreens, it’s pretty rare.

There are two types of sunscreens: physical blockers (containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide) and chemical blockers (containing ingredients like oxybenzone). Allergic reactions usually occur with chemical blockers containing oxybenzone.

So, if you’re concerned about allergies, opt for a sunscreen formulated for your skin type.

Myth #3: Use Sunscreen Only When You Go Out

This myth is a big no-no! Even on cloudy or rainy days, you should still apply sunscreen.

Why? Because clouds don’t block harmful UV rays! Even indoors, your skin can still absorb significant UVA and UVB rays.

So, make sunscreen a daily habit, regardless of the weather or your plans for the day.

Myth #4: Sunscreen Darkens Your Skin Colour

Sunscreen does not change your skin colour, but if you spend a lot of time outside in the sun, you may still get a tan, even with sunscreen on.

To avoid this, apply sunscreen to all exposed areas, including less obvious spots like your toes, hands, and hairline.

Myth #5: One Application of High SPF Sunscreen Lasts All Day

It’s easy to think that a high SPF sunscreen will protect you all day, but that’s not true.

Even high SPF sunscreens lose their effectiveness after a few hours in the sun. So, reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours while in the sun.

Myth #6: Sunscreen Prevents Your Body From Absorbing Vitamin D

Sunlight is an excellent source of vitamin D. Although sunscreen blocks UV rays, it doesn’t fully prevent your body from absorbing the necessary vitamin D.

Just 5-30 minutes of sun exposure can help your body get the proper amount. If you’re worried about getting enough vitamin D from sun exposure alone, consider talking to your doctor about supplements.

Myth #7: Dark-Skinned People Don’t Need Sunscreen

This is a huge misconception.

While it’s true that people with more melanin in their skin are less likely to get sunburned, they still need sunscreen to protect against skin damage, premature ageing, and wrinkles.

The Bottom Line

It’s essential to separate fact from fiction when it comes to sunscreen. Remember to choose a waterproof, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 to 50, and never use expired products. Make sunscreen a daily habit, and your skin will thank you!

Now that you know the truth behind these sunscreen secrets feel free to share any other myths you’ve heard in the comments below. And don’t forget to check out our previous.