SPF Myths

SPF myths

A water resistant sunscreen with at least a SPF 30+ rating should be used. Sunscreen should always be applied 20 minutes before heading outdoors. Sunscreen provides a protective barrier between your skin and the sun by adding a layer of chemical absorbers and physical blockers to your skin. Chemical absorbers absorb UV radiation before it comes in contact with the skin, and physical blockers cause the UV radiation to reflect off the skin.

THE MYTHS

1. I tan, so I don’t need sunscreen.
Whilst skincancer.org and other skin cancer organizations state that people with fairer skin are more likely to experience skin cancer than those with olive or dark skin, anyone can get skin cancer and everyone should be wearing SPF 50+.

2. I’ve applied my sunscreen… now I’m ready to go.
Sunscreen offers protection, but the best sun protection is sunscreen and long-sleeved and protective clothing. As well as this, staying out of the sun during the hours of the day with the highest UV rating (between 11am and 2pm) and using sunscreen regularly will dramatically decrease your risk of skin cancer.

3. I won’t get enough vitamin D if I apply sunscreen.
Sufficient vitamin D can usually be achieved within 15 minutes sun exposure. Ample vitamin D can also be achieved by eating certain foods, taking a supplement and incidental daily sun exposure.

Disclaimer: Please be aware that results and benefits may vary from patient to patient taking into consideration factors such as age, lifestyle and medical history.