You should know that modern sunscreens provide greater and better protection than ever.
Before you buy your next sunscreen, read the following article and use it correctly:
UVA versus UVB light
Understanding sunscreen myths requires a basic understanding of UVA and UVB light. They are both forms of ultraviolet (UV) light that can affect the skin.
UVA rays have a longer wave that penetrates into the deeper layer of skin, called the dermis. The exposure to UVA rays can lead to skin aging, wrinkles and a suppressed immune system.
UVB rays have a shorter wave and are responsible for sunburn. UVB rays can play a key role in developing skin cancer and frequent sunburns may cause permanent damage over time.
Which are the myths and truths about the sunscreens?
Myth: Sunscreen is not always necessary
Many people believe that sunscreen is only necessary when their entire body is exposed to sunlight, such as when at the pool or swimming in the sea. Ultraviolet light is still harmful to exposed skin, no matter how much of it is exposed. Some people also believe that sunscreen is not necessary on cloudy days because the sun does not feel as strong as usual.
The truth is that anytime the body is exposed to sun light, it is exposed to UV radiation, even if it is an overcast day. The lower arms and face are common areas we leave exposed throughout the day, which may increase their risk of sun damage. It is best to cover the exposed skin with sunscreen and consider other protective methods, such as wearing a hat.
Myth: Sunscreen will prevent the body from absorbing vitamin D
Vitamin D is a vital nutrient for human health and the body makes it easily through exposure to UV rays. Sunscreen, however, blocks UV rays. So, in theory, using sunscreen 100 percent of the time would prevent a person from getting the proper levels of vitamin D. Many scientists and dermatologists suggest that just 5 to 30 minutes of sun exposure per day can create the proper amount of vitamin D in the body.
Myth: Sunscreen causes health problems
This myth comes from an older study done on oxybenzone, one of the active ingredients in many sunscreens. Rats exposed to oxybenzone experienced serious side effects. However, as a research letter posted to Archives of Dermatology points out that the levels of exposure were extremely high.
They demonstrated that these results were impossible in humans, even those who use sunscreen regularly and liberally.
The researchers noted that after 40 years of using oxybenzone as an ingredient in sunscreens, there are no published studies that demonstrate toxic effects in humans caused by absorbed oxybenzone.
Myth: People with dark skin do not need sunscreeneve that those with more melanin in their skin do not need to use sunscreen.
This is because melanin acts to diffuse UVB rays and may protect against sunburns, to some extent.
While people with darker skin are more protected from the sun, they should still use a full spectrum sunscreen. UVA damage is not blocked by melanin in the same way and can lead to premature skin aging and wrinkles. Melanin will also not protect the skin from extreme sun exposure. People with darker skin are also not protected against skin cancer.
Myth: Tanning beds provide a protective base tan
Some people believe that they should use tanning beds to get a quick tan before summer comes, or before exposing themselves to a lot of sun, such as when on vacation.
Tanning beds use high concentrations of UVA light to darken the skin quickly, whereas the sun includes both UVA and UVB light.
Exposing the body to high levels of UVA light from a tanning bed creates a temporary tan that will do very little to protect the skin from sun exposure and sunburns caused by UVB light.
Myth: Makeup is enough to protect the face
While it is true that makeup may provide a little protection from the sun, it is not much and is not a replacement for a good sunscreen.
Makeup should be seen as an additional layer of protection, not the only layer of protection.
Myth: Sunscreen works better than covering up
It can be tempting to think that a layer of sunscreen makes the body invinsible to the sun. Many people who wear sunscreen believe this allows them to stay protected throughout the day, even if much of the skin is exposed.
The truth is, covering up the skin is much better protection than sunscreen. A long-brimmed hat and clothing will protect the skin better than any sunscreen.
Myth: You cannot tan while wearing sunscreen
Sunscreen will protect the skin from most light rays, but some will still reach the skin. This means it is still possible to get a tan while wearing sunscreen.
Sunscreen helps protect against UVA and UVB rays, but it may not protect the body completely. It is still possible to get a tan while using sunscreen, even when someone applies it multiple times throughout the day. A tan is the body’s natural protective response to UV exposure.
To avoid a tan, it is best to apply sunscreen and cover up with a hat and long clothing.
Myth: One application of sunscreen lasts all day
People think that sunscreen will last all day after just one application. In reality, sunscreen breaks down in the light and loses its effectiveness over a short period of time.
They should apply sunscreen every 2 to 4 hours, at least.
Myth: Sunscreen is waterproof
Sunscreen labeled as water-resistant or sweat-resistant, or marketed as sunscreen for sports, may appear to be waterproof.
Unfortunately, no sunscreen product can be 100 % waterproof. People must always reapply water-resistant sunscreens after water exposure.
Allow sunscreen to settle on the skin for at least 10 to 15 minutes before going in the water.
Myth: Sunscreen never expires
Contrary to common belief, sunscreen naturally expires. The active ingredients can break down over time and using expired sunscreen may leave the skin unprotected.
Conclusion:
Understanding the truth about these myths can help people use sunscreen effectively.
Instructions for each sunscreen can vary, and people should follow the instructions on the packaging for maximum protection.
Proper use of sunscreen can help guard against skin damage and sunburn.