Sunscreen is the most crucial step in any skincare routine, as it helps to protect your skin against the harmful effects of ultraviolet rays. However, there are loads of misconceptions about the use of sunscreen. Here are some common myths about sunscreen that we must have come across.
While seeking some natural vitamin D from sunlight or heading out in the daytime, we all tend to expose our skin to the harmful rays emitting from the sun. The amount of rays falling on the skin for extended hours certainly has some damaging results. All thanks to the ultraviolet (UV) radiation. This can lead to sunburn, wrinkles, and, in severe situations, skin cancer as well. That's why sunscreen is essential, even on foggy days. Sunscreen is a vital skin care product, but there are numerous misconceptions about it, particularly regarding the sun protection factor (SPF). Read on to learn about the myths surrounding sunscreen and its use in the skincare routine.
What is sunscreen?
Sunscreen is a protective screen or shield that you put on your skin to protect it from the sun's rays. According to the experts, it is believed that sunscreen has the ability to create a barrier that keeps dangerous UV radiation from reaching and damaging your skin. It is available in a variety of forms, including creams, sprays, and sticks, and everything works to protect your skin.
What are the most prevalent sunscreen myths and facts?
Sunscreen is vital for everyone, regardless of skin tone or type. It protects against UV radiation, which can cause sunburn, accelerates aging (such as wrinkles and sunspots), and, most importantly, reduces the chance of skin cancer. Here are some popular myths regarding sunscreen:
- Myth: You do not need sunscreen when it is cloudy.
Fact: When the sun is hidden behind clouds, you may believe it is safe to go out without sunscreen, but you are mistaken. UV rays can penetrate clouds; thus, sunscreen should be applied every day.
- Myth: People with dark skin don't need sunscreen.
Fact: Darker skin contains more melanin, which is helpful in providing some level of UV protection, but it does not prevent skin cancer. According to the experts, sunscreen is beneficial for everyone. Hence, a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 15 and above is necessary to protect people from sun-induced skin cancer and premature skin aging.
- Myth: Using sunscreen can prevent your body from producing Vitamin D.
Fact: While sunscreen prevents UVB rays required for vitamin D generation, most people do not apply or reapply it frequently enough to entirely block all UVB exposure. As a result, sunscreen has a modest influence on Vitamin D production. Regular, brief exposures to sunlight without sunscreen (approximately 10 to 15 minutes several times per week) are sufficient to maintain adequate Vitamin D levels.
- Myth: Makeup with SPF is sufficient.
Fact: In most cases, SPF-containing makeup provides insufficient protection when compared to sunscreen. Makeup is not applied as thickly or evenly as sunscreen should be. As a result, it is best used in conjunction with a specialized sunscreen lotion benefits.
- Myth: SPF more than 50 doubles protection.
Fact: High SPF provides extra protection, but not double. According to the expert, SPF 30 blocks roughly 97 percent of UVB radiation, while SPF 50 blocks approximately 98 percent.
- Myth: A single application of sunscreen provides all-day protection.
Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every 2–3 hours. You should reapply it after swimming, sweating, or drying off.
- Myth: A little sunscreen is plenty.
Fact: Most people use less sunscreen than is necessary, which reduces its effectiveness. For adequate protection, apply about a healthy amount of sunscreen to your face and neck.
- Myth: Sunscreen is waterproof.
Fact: There are no sunscreens that deliver a complete waterproof effect. Those sunscreens that read ‘water resistant sunscreen’ must be reapplied after intervals.
- Myth: Sunscreen leads to vitamin deficits.
Fact: There is no evidence that using sunscreen causes vitamin deficiencies. The major function of sunscreen is to protect the skin from dangerous UV radiation, which far outweighs any unsubstantiated dangers of vitamin shortages.
- Myth: Baby sunscreen is only for kids.
Fact: Baby sunscreen is ideal for children, but it is also suitable for anyone with delicate skin. It features a moderate formulation that is free of harsh chemicals and fragrances.
How do I choose the correct sunscreen?
You need to choose a sunscreen based on your skin type.
- For oily skin, use gel-based or non-comedogenic sunscreens that do not clog pores.
- Dry skin people should choose sunscreen that contains moisturizers.
- Mineral or physical sunscreens containing titanium dioxide or zinc oxide are less likely to irritate sensitive skin.