Is a higher SPF better? Do you need sun protection indoors? 7 sunscreen truths and myths you need to know
When it comes to sun protection, the array of advice and opinions out there can be overwhelming, leaving us wondering what’s actually true. From SPF numbers to reapplication rules, there are so many misconceptions that can cloud our judgment and potentially put our skin at risk. To help with this, we chatted with two dermatologists to separate fact from fiction by debunking common myths and highlighting essential truths about sunscreen.
Myth: Deeper skin tones don’t need SPF
“A deep skin tone contains more melanin, which provides more protection from UV rays than fair skin,” explains Dr. Brendan Camp, MD, a dermatologist in New York. “But even deeply pigmented skin can be damaged by the effects of UV radiation and is susceptible to sunburn, sun damage and skin cancer.” In other words, everyone, no matter their skin tone, needs SPF to protect their skin.
Truth: You need to reapply every 2 hours
If you’ve wondered whether your morning application of sunscreen is enough to keep your skin protected all day long, the answer is no. “The ingredients break down over time, especially with exposure to UV light,” explains Dr. Lauren Penzi, MD, a dermatologist in New York. She adds that activities like sweating, water exposure, rubbing your face or putting on clothing can also remove sunscreen. So, it’s true that you need to reapply sunscreen throughout the day. Ideally, every two hours as recommended by the American Academy of Dermatology Association.
Myth: You only need SPF on sunny days
Even on cloudy days, you should still apply sunscreen. Here’s why: “Up to 80 percent of UV rays can penetrate through the clouds,” Dr. Penzi says. “UV exposure is also cumulative, so even low level exposure, like walking your dog daily, can add up over time and contribute to skin cancer.”
Truth: You don’t need sunscreen indoors
It’s also a myth that if you’ll be spending the day indoors sunscreen isn’t needed. Dr. Camp recommends making sunscreen part of your daily routine no matter what your plans for the day entails as UV rays can still penetrate through windows.
Myth: Wearing sunscreen can lead to vitamin D deficiency
If you’re concerned that wearing sunscreen regularly can lead to a vitamin D deficiency, don’t worry. “Sunscreen reduces skin’s production of vitamin D, but it doesn’t block it completely,” Dr. Penzi says. “You can still get enough through small amounts of sun exposure and diet.”
Truth: A higher SPF offers more protection
Sorta. It’s true that sunscreens with a higher SPF provide more protection than those with lower SPFs, according to Dr. Camp. However, he notes that the difference narrows as the SPF number increases. For example, an SPF 30 sunscreen blocks about 97 percent of UVB rays while an SPF 50 blocks around 98 percent of UVB rays. This explains why an SPF of 30 or higher is recommended, Dr. Penzi adds, since the theoretical percentage of UV filtering levels off at SPF 30 and above.
Myth: You don’t need sunscreen if your makeup has SPF
There are tons of makeup products on the market that contain SPF, however, Dr. Penzi says in general these products shouldn’t take the place of sunscreen in your routine. Makeup products typically have lower levels of SPF and don’t usually offer broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays like a sunscreen would. Also, many people don’t apply as much makeup as they would sunscreen, which lowers the level of protection. Additionally, sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, but many people don’t reapply their makeup throughout the day.
The views expressed in this article do not necessarily represent the views of Murad, and are for informational purposes only, even if the advice of physicians and medical practitioners are included. This article is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be considered specific medical advice.
