How Sunscreen Can Save Your Skin: 10 Myths and Facts You Need to Know

Question: Does a Higher SPF Of Sunscreen mean more protection? Let's find out!

Sun is a vital aspect of protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays. It is a simple yet powerful tool that can help prevent skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin-related issues. In this blog post, we’ll explore what sunscreen is, the different types available, the importance of using it, and our current favorites for you and the family! 

What is Sunscreen?

Sunscreen is a product that contain ingredients that help protect the skin from the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun. These rays can cause damage to the skin, including sunburns, skin aging, and skin cancer. Sunscreens work by reflecting or absorbing the sun’s rays before they penetrate the skin.

When do you need sunscreen?

Sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine. It helps protect our skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation, which can cause skin cancer and premature aging. But many people believe that sunscreen is only necessary on sunny days when the sun is out in full force. However, the truth is that sunscreen should be worn in all weather conditions, including when it is cold, cloudy, or raining.

First, it is important to understand that even on cloudy or rainy days, UV rays can still penetrate the clouds and reach your skin. Up to 80% of UV rays can still penetrate light cloud cover, according to the World Health Organization. This means that even if it’s cold or overcast outside, your skin is still at risk of sun damage.

Secondly, even if you spend most of your time indoors, you still need to wear sunscreen. The glass typically used in car, home, and office windows is designed to block most UVB rays, but it does not offer protection from all UVA rays. This means that if you’re close to a window, you still run the risk of exposure to UVA rays and possible skin damage.

Does the Sun Age you?

Absolutely. Inface it is the number one reason for premature aging.

According to various studies, the sun is one of the leading causes of premature skin aging in people. Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause DNA damage in the skin and lead to a decrease in collagen production, which is responsible for keeping skin firm, plump, and youthful-looking.

Studies have shown that up to 90% of visible skin changes commonly attributed to aging are caused by UV exposure, with symptoms such as wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, and uneven skin tone being some of the most common signs.

Furthermore, research has found that cumulative exposure to the sun can add up over time, leading to more significant skin damage and aging. Therefore, protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful rays with measures such as regular use of sunscreen, protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours can help prevent premature skin aging and keep your skin healthy and youthful for longer.

Busting myths 9 misconceptions about sunscreen and sun safety

Myth

Fact

Myth: Higher SPFs give significantly more protection. 

Fact: While an SPF of 30 protects against 97% of UVB rays, an SPF of 50 only increases protection to 98%.

Myth: Any clothing will block the sun’s rays. 

 Fact: Some types of clothing are better at blocking UV rays than others. Dark colors, tightly woven fabrics, and synthetic fibers such as polyester are best.

Myth: Wearing sunscreen causes vitamin D deficiency. 

Fact: You can still get enough vitamin D while wearing sunscreen. Just 10 minutes of sun exposure on your arms and legs each day is enough.

Myth: Sunscreen is waterproof. 

Fact: No sunscreen is truly waterproof. Sunscreens labeled “water-resistant” must specify whether they protect for 40 or 80 minutes while swimming or sweating.

Myth: You don’t need to wear sunscreen on cloudy days. 

 Fact: Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds and cause sunburn.

Myth: Sunscreen doesn’t expire. 

 Fact: Sunscreen does expire and should be replaced every two years. If stored in high temperatures, it can expire even faster.

Myth: You only need to apply sunscreen once a day. 

Fact: Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or after swimming or sweating.

Myth: Sunscreen is only necessary at the beach or pool. 

 Fact: Sunscreen should be worn every day, even on cloudy days or indoors near windows.

Myth: The higher the SPF, the longer you can stay in the sun. 

Fact: No sunscreen can block 100% of UV rays. Higher SPF only provides slightly more protection from UVB rays.

Myth: Your face tends to age equally (right and left side of face)

Fact: Nope! The left side of the face tends to age fast than the right- because it gets the most sun from driving! So even in the car- through a window- there are lasting effects from the sun without sunscreen. 

Finally, wearing sunscreen is not just about protecting yourself from skin cancer and premature aging. It’s also about setting a good example for others, especially children. By wearing sunscreen every day, you can help educate others about the importance of sun protection and encourage them to do the same. Remember- sunscreen use is like compounding interest, cumulative exposure to the sun can add up over time, leading to more significant skin damage and aging, and the consequences can be detrimental.  Be the role model for your family, your children, your friends, your siblings, your colleagues by wearing sunscreen, talking about the importance of it, and encouraging others- especially your kids (even though they want to go play now!).  To learn more about sun safety, and recommendations based on ethnicity, geographic location, and other factors click here. 

Ready to be a regular sunscreen user- but not sure where to begin? (so many choices!)

Chemical vs mineral sunscreen?

Chemical and mineral sunscreens are two types of sunscreens that work differently to protect your skin from harmful UV radiation. Chemical sunscreens work by absorbing UV rays and converting them into heat, while mineral sunscreens work by physically blocking UV rays from penetrating the skin. Here are some key differences between chemical and mineral sunscreens:

Active Ingredients: Chemical sunscreens typically contain ingredients like avobenzone, oxybenzone, octisalate, and homosalate, whereas mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.

Protection: While both types of sunscreens provide protection against UVA and UVB rays, mineral sunscreens offer more protection against UVA rays due to the way they reflect light. However, chemical sunscreens may offer more complete UV protection than mineral sunscreens.

Skin Sensitivity: Mineral sunscreens are generally better for people with sensitive skin as they are less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions. Chemical sunscreens, on the other hand, can be irritating to some skin types.

Environmental Impact: Mineral sunscreens are considered to be more eco-friendly as they do not contain chemicals that may be harmful to marine life such as oxybenzone and octinoxate found in most chemical sunscreens.

Ease of Use: Chemical sunscreens tend to be more easily absorbed into the skin and leave less of a white cast than mineral sunscreens, which can be thicker and leave a noticeable residue on the skin.

Overall, both chemical and mineral sunscreens have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your skin type, lifestyle, and preferences. It’s important to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and to reapply it every two hours when outdoors to ensure adequate protection against UV radiation.

Our Favorites: includes links to each product!

Looking for the perfect sunscreen can be a daunting task, but we are here to make it easy for you. Our team has put together a free download that includes our top ten favorite sunscreens, from the best mineral to chemical sunscreens, pregnancy safe, baby safe, sensitive skin, and for the whole family. We’ve also included our favorite sunscreen that can be used when working out and as a primer under makeup. 

With this guide, you’ll never miss a day of sunscreen again. Protect your skin from harmful UV radiation with confidence, knowing that you’re using some of the best sunscreens on the market.  

Our Sunscreen guide provides Full reviews and links to each product for convenient buying!

Taking care of your skin is not just a matter of vanity – it’s an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. Incorporating daily skincare routines and using sunscreen helps protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation, reducing your risk of skin cancers and other skin precancers. In fact, regular use of sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher can decrease your risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) by about 40 percent and lower your melanoma risk by 50 percent. By making the decision to take care of your skin, you’re investing in your own longevity and well-being, as well as that of your family and loved ones. Download our guide now and learn about some of the best sunscreens on the market for every skin type and situation. Take the first step towards healthier, happier skin today. 

In conclusion, sunscreen is an essential part of any skincare routine, and it’s crucial to choose the right type of sunscreen that works best for your skin type and lifestyle. Whether you prefer mineral or chemical sunscreens, there are many options available to suit your needs. At The Oasis at Rose Hill, we offer a range treatments to help protect your skin from UV rays 365 days a year, and create a personalized  skincare regimen just for you- which will include a daily sunscreen to help you feel refreshed and looking healthy and youthful. Don’t wait until it’s too late – book a consultation with us today or a facial to begin your skincare journey with us, and let our experts help you achieve your skin care goals. 

Together, we can ensure that your skin stays protected and healthy for years to come. To view our services at The Oasis at Rose Hill and learn more about all we have to offer please click here.