Sun protection myths and facts

Stay safe in the sun, this summer by making sure you follow the instructions on you sun protection cream, but also here are a few myths and their facts about the sun and the protection you need. Its set to be a hot summer this year do please make sure you take care in the sun

Myth: Applying sunscreen in the morning, means i am covered all day

Whatever sun protection you use, you will still need to reapply as the day goes on. You should reapply sun screen every 90 minutes. More often even after you have been in the sea or swimming pool. to get the level of SPF stated on the bottle, make sure its applied properly. A shot glass quantity is perfect to cover your body and a tea spoon is enough to cover your face.

Myth: I am naturally protected from the sun as my skin is dark

Darker skin has more melanin, which can  offer some protection to the sun, however you can still burn. Afro carribean and Asians have a natural SPF of about 13, but they still need a higher protection form the sun to prevent skin cancer

Myth: I need to wear a higher SPF as the sun gets stronger

The SPF on the bottle refers to the protection from UVB rays and there is only a modest difference between SPF 15 and 50.  It isnt a substantial increase, so instead of concentrating on a higher SPF, you should concentrate on applying the sunscreen you have more often. if you have fair skin, you will benefit from SPF 30, where a person with darker skin will benefit from a lower SPF

Myth: i only need to use sun screen on sunny day

The sun emits UVA and UVB rays. On the sunny days, it is the UVB rays  that are a danger, they tan and burn your skin and in small cases initiate skin cancer. However, anti aging UVA rays are present throughout the year, they can pass through clouds and glass. A good face or body cream with a SPF will give you all year protection. This will prevent premature aging and wrinkles, skin cancer and loss of volume in your skin.

Myth: I have SPF in my foundation or Face cream, so i dont need any other SPF lotion

some cosmetics and face creams do have a SPF in them, but it doesnt stop all of the UVA and UVB rays from coming through, although it is tempting to just think your covered when you wear a face cream or foundation, in fact your not. Especially as you have to keep reapplying during the day, when in fact you only really apply face cream or foundation once a day. So although it offers a tiny bit of protection, it still isnt enough protection to stop you getting burnt

Myth: i need to get loads of sun to prevent Vitamin D deficiency

Although Vitamin D does come from the sunshine, you dont need to sun bathe in the sun to get the vitamin D, you can also get it from Salmon, cereal and egg yolks.