As someone who has recently added sunscreen to her daily routine, can I just say it has completely changed my skincare game for the better? Surprisingly, despite having such quick, measurable benefits, it often gets pushed to the back of the beauty routine. Modern sunscreens are highly developed, providing more protection than ever before, but misconceptions still abound.
Today, in honour of Sunscreen Day, let’s dive into the weirdest reasons people use to not use sunscreen everyday, and the reality check you need, if you’ve ever said these things too!
The sun’s rays don’t enter my house!
Reality check: UV rays can penetrate windows, meaning you’re still at risk even if you spend most of your day inside. Indoor lighting can also emit low-dose UV radiation. Daily sunscreen application is essential to keep your skin safe.
I have dark skin so I’m not going to get tanned!
Reality check: Sunscreen doesn’t only just prevent you from getting tanned – it’s also protecting your skin from getting burnt and from skin cancer. Plus, melanin is not immune to all UV rays.
All my makeup has SPF.
Reality check: Makeup with SPF is a bonus, but it’s not enough. The SPF in makeup is usually lower than recommended, and the amount applied is typically insufficient. Layer your sunscreen under your makeup for optimal protection.
It’s winter!
Reality check: UV rays are present year-round, regardless of temperature. Cold weather can often be deceiving, as snow and ice reflect UV rays, increasing exposure. Don’t skip sunscreen in the winter.
I always carry an umbrella or cap with me!
Reality check: Umbrellas and shade structures can reduce UV exposure but don’t eliminate it. Reflective surfaces like water, sand, and concrete can bounce UV rays onto your skin. Sunscreen remains a vital protective measure.
I live in a cloudy city.
Reality check: UV rays are present even on cloudy days. Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds (which is basically water vapour), meaning your skin is still at risk. Applying sunscreen daily is the best way to ensure continuous protection.
I won’t get that sunkissed, glowy tan.
Reality check: Sunscreen protects your skin from the UVA and UVB rays, preventing skin cancer. If you’re sunbathing in direct sunlight, a tan is inevitable – there’s only so much sunscreen can do!
I put on sunscreen yesterday and didn’t wash my face.
Reality check: Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every 2-3 hours. It does not offer long-term protection after a single application. Consistency is key to keeping your skin safe from UV radiation.
I need the Vitamin D.
Reality check: While vitamin D is crucial for our health and is synthesised through UV exposure, the idea that sunscreen usage leads to deficiency is overblown. Sunscreen doesn’t create an impenetrable barrier against all UV rays. In fact, sunlight can still penetrate clothing and the gaps in sunscreen application. Plus, sunscreens lose effectiveness over time, and let’s be honest, who remembers to reapply it perfectly every time they step outside?
Sunscreen causes cancer.
Reality check: The sun has been proven to cause cancer. While chemicals like oxybenzone (an ingredient in sunscreen) are harmful in extremely large doses, it’s unlikely that you’ll get cancer because of them – even if you apply sunscreen everyday. Instead, opt for sunscreens that have a zinc or titanium base.
It will just make my acne worse.
Reality check: The sunscreen market has evolved beyond belief and there are a lot of non-comedogenic formulas out there!
I have a whole set of after-sun products to heal the damage.
Reality check: Have you ever heard the quote, ‘prevention is better than cure’? When it comes to after-sun care, it only works to soothe the unpleasant symptoms of sunburn and won’t fix any damage done to the DNA.
Understanding the truth about sunscreen and debunking these common myths can help you use sunscreen correctly. This is one product that is absolutely essential for protecting your skin from early aging and skin cancers. So, don’t let these cheeky statements fool you – make daily sunscreen application a non-negotiable part of your skincare routine. Your skin will thank you!
Featured Image: Pexels
