Welcome to my blog where we’re going to debunk common sunscreen misconceptions. 🌞 As someone who’s had a life-long struggle with sensitive skin and sunburns, I know how important proper sun protection is when it comes to skin health. I’ve done a lot of research on the topic and found that there are many misconceptions about sunscreen that can do more harm than good. So, let’s set the record straight and keep your skin as healthy as possible!

SPF 100 is Better Than SPF 50

One of the most common misconceptions about sunscreen is that the higher the SPF, the better. However, this is not necessarily true. 🙅 SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor, and it measures how long the sunscreen will protect your skin from burning. SPF 50 blocks about 98% of UVB rays, while SPF 100 only blocks about 99%. The difference is marginal, and often, higher SPF sunscreens contain more chemicals that can irritate the skin. A person applying sunscreen on their face, with different bottles of SPF labeled on them.

Waterproof Sunscreens Don’t Need To Be Reapplied

Another common myth is that waterproof sunscreens don’t need to be reapplied. 🚫 This is also false. Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, even if it’s labeled as waterproof or water-resistant. Swimming, sweating, and wiping your body with a towel can all strip your skin of the sunscreen, exposing you to UV damage.

Sunscreen Makes Your Skin Oily

Some people avoid using sunscreen because they think it will make their skin oily. But, oily skin is not a sign of proper sunscreen use. 🌟 Many modern sunscreens are designed to be non-greasy, and some even have a mattifying effect on the skin as they absorb excess oil. If you have oily skin, look for a sunscreen that’s labeled “oil-free” or “mattifying.” A lightweight, non-comedogenic formula will not clog pores or cause breakouts. A woman applying sunscreen on her arm and shoulder while on a beach.

Only Apply Sunscreen On Sunny Days

Another common misconception is that sunscreen only needs to be applied on sunny days.☀️ This is not true at all. Even on cloudy, cool days, the sun’s UV rays can still penetrate the atmosphere and harm your skin. So, it’s essential to apply sunscreen daily, even on days when you think you’re not in direct sunlight.

Sunscreen Protects Your Skin From All UV Rays

Many people believe that all sunscreens can protect your skin from all types of UV rays. However, that’s not the case. 💡 Sunscreen can only protect your skin from UVB rays, which are responsible for sunburns. UVA rays are responsible for long-term skin damage such as wrinkles and skin cancer. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

You Don’t Need A Lot of Sunscreen

Finally, another significant myth is that you don’t need to apply a lot of sunscreen for it to be effective. 🤔 This is not accurate. You should use enough sunscreen to cover your entire body, and the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using about one ounce of sunscreen, or enough to fill a shot glass, for each application. And, you should apply sunscreen generously, so don’t be afraid to put it on a little thick. A close-up of a bottle of sunscreen, with a caption that reads, "Apply generously."

Sunscreen isn’t an option when it comes to keeping your skin healthy and protected against the sun’s harmful rays. So let’s debunk those myths and get your skin the protection it deserves.👍

A woman walking on the beach while holding a sunhat, with a caption that reads, "Stay protected, stay safe."