7 Myths About Sunscreen You Need To Stop Believing Now

With summer comes longer days and scorching sun, and it becomes all the more important to protect your skin from UV rays. A research in Australia says that regular application of SPF-15, or higher, to the face, neck, arms and hands can lower the risk of melanoma (a type of skin cancer) by half. Our skin is the body’s largest growing organ and does so much for us. So it’s time for you to be a little more gentle towards it.

1. I only need to dab a little

So many people believe in applying a few dots of sunscreen here and there but the amount of sunscreen that one needs to apply should fill a shot glass. You actually need to apply a nickel-sized dollop just for your face.

2. You put sunscreen only when you’re about to step out

It takes almost 15 minutes for your skin to absorb the sunscreen, you need to apply it before you step out; otherwise, your skin will be unguarded in those first few moments and can burn.

3. There is no sun, so let’s just not put it

It may look cloudy or overcast, but don’t let that fool you. The sun’s damaging rays are stubborn and can pass through clouds. Fact: Up to 40 percent of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays reach the earth on a completely cloudy day.

4. It’s fine if I sit under a shade

While it’s true that the shade does protect you from the sun, it doesn’t mean it is totally protective and safe. UV rays are the most harmful part of sunlight and can still reach your skin indirectly.

5. Ohh my skin tone is dark and I never tan!

We are all prone to skin cancer no matter what the skin colour – no doubt it is more common among lighter-skinned people. But people with dark skin complexion can still develop skin problems from UV rays.

6. Makeup with SPF is enough to protect your skin

If you are not going to be in the sun or maybe for the short time, you should be OK. But if you work outdoors or plan to spend a lot of time in the sun then you should definitely wear sunscreen beneath your makeup that is water-resistant and will stay on your skin.

7. Using last year’s bottle is fine

Absolutely not! Even sunscreen has an expiration date and you should pay attention to it. Throw away last year’s bottle and try not keep them over a year.