Sunscreen Myths

You only need sunscreen when it’s sunny outside.  Nope!  UVA & UVB rays are just as strong on cloudy or overcast days as it is when the sun is shining!  In fact, ultraviolet rays can pass through glass, so if you work near a window, or are driving, you can still be negatively affected by these rays.  It’s best to just get into the habit of wearing it every day, rain or shine!  

I don’t need sunscreen because I have dark skin, or I tan easily.  Wrong!  Skin is skin!  No matter the ethnicity, color, texture or type, you can burn, and even develop skin cancer.  True, sunburn shows up more quickly on very fair or “white” skin than on darker complexions, however regardless of skin color, the damage down deep is still occurring. In fact, the American Dermatologists Assoc. Reports that 1 in 5 Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime regardless of ethnicity, race or color.  

I don’t need sunscreen because I wear makeup with SPF in it.   Sorry, no!  You need to use about a teaspoon of sunscreen on your face and neck to ensure protection.  You don’t use a teaspoon of foundation on your skin, so the amount of sunscreen you are getting from your makeup is not nearly enough.  Is it an additional layer of protection?  Sure, but not enough on its own.  Also, it is vital that you let sunscreen set for about 10 minutes before you put your makeup over it.  Your makeup will go on better, and your sunscreen will be more effective.

Higher SPF sunscreen is best.   Actually, SPF30 protects skin from about 97.3% of all UV rays for approximately 2 hours outdoors, SPF50 about 98%, SPF100 about 98.7%.  There is hardly any difference at all.   So as long as you are using an SPF30 or higher, you’re good to go.

You’ll get a vitamin deficiency if you wear sunscreen. Not true!  The 1-3% of  UVA & UVB rays that get through your sunscreen is plenty to allow for your body to create vitamin D.  D is what allows our bodies to absorb calcium and phosphorus.  In fact, the Association of Skincare Professionals has found that a poor diet is much more harmful to skin and overall health than lack of sunlight.

Tans are ok as long as you don’t burn.  Super wrong!!!  UV radiation is a carcinogen.  Unprotected sun exposure and tanning beds increase your chance of developing skin cancer regardless of your skin color.  The best tan is the kind you get sprayed on by a reputable spray tan artist, or one that  you rub on in the form of body makeup or gradual tan cream products containing DHA - a naturally occurring sugar that reacts with keratin  giving a temporary caramel coloring to your skin.

Catherine M. Puckett, L.E. MEd. June 2026