6 Common Myths about Sunscreen and How to Choose the Best One For You
By now I'm sure you've heard that sunscreen is important to protect our skin from the sun's harsh rays and prevent signs of aging. But, did you know that the blue light emitted from our mobile phones and computers attacks our skin, causing damage which contributes to premature aging and hyperpigmentation? This is a small (but important!) fact that many don't know and another great reason to find the right sunscreen!
But with so many options out there, it can be difficult to find one that suits our needs.
To make things more complicated, there are many myths about sunscreen. We need to know the facts before we make a decision on what kind of sunscreen will work best for us.
I hope to help you with this by sharing 6 myths (and their truths) about sunscreen and how you can choose the best one for you:
Myth #1: You must apply sunscreen before you go outside.
Fact: Some people think that they should apply sunscreen long before going outdoors so it has time to absorb into the skin, but this isn't necessary. I find it's best to apply sunscreen as part of my regular skincare routine so I don't forget (and often I use it as part of my moisturizer), but applying sunscreen regularly is key, not how long you apply it before going outside.
Myth #2: You should reapply sunscreen every two hours.
Fact: This is true for some sunscreen formulas that contain chemical sun blockers, but it's not necessary if you use a physical block like zinc oxide or those that state they last longer. Be sure to read each label to see how long the application is meant to last, some can last 2-4 hours. If you are doing an activity that may wash away the sunscreen faster (such as swimming or something that causes you to sweat), make sure you take that into account as well!
Myth #3: Good sunscreen is expensive.
Fact: Although it can be pricey to buy a high-quality sunscreen, there are many affordable options out there that will do the same job. Some of these include Dermastart Clear Choice Sports Shield and my line of sheer and tinted sunscreens. You can have great quality and coverage for an affordable price!
Myth #4: You need to apply sunscreen only on sunny days.
Fact: Sunscreen should be applied daily. Sunscreen protects our skin from harmful UV rays, which are present even on cloudy and overcast days! On these overcast days, up to 80% of harmful UV radiation can penetrate through cloud cover and reach our skin. That's why it's so important you protect your skin daily, especially on days it doesn't seem "sunny enough"!
Myth #5: You can't use sunscreen if you have a skin condition like acne, or dry or oily skin.
Fact: We should all be using sunscreen, as it protects our skin from harmful UV rays! If your doctor has given you any other instructions with regard to sun exposure, then of course follow those guidelines. However, for the majority of conditions, sunscreen should be a daily part of your skincare routine.
Myth #6: Sunscreen doesn’t expire.
Fact: Although most sunscreens do have expiration dates listed on the bottle, to get optimal protection sunscreen should not go beyond a year old (regardless of what the expiration says!).
Now we know that sunscreen should be used daily, but which sunscreen is right for you?
First, it’s important to know that there are many factors to consider when choosing your sunscreen, such as:
What does it protect against (UVA and UVB rays?)
Your skin type (do you have sensitive or oily skin?)
If it’s water resistant (will you be sweating or near water?)
Will you be wearing makeup with sunscreen?
You’ll want to make sure the sunscreen you choose protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, this is sometimes called a broad spectrum sunscreen, so make sure you are choosing one of those.
If you have sensitive skin, try to stay away from sunscreens that have oxybenzone as that could irritate your skin more.
Regardless of your skin type, you’ll want to use an SPF of 30 or higher, and if you are wearing sunscreen as part of your daily routine, I would recommend a sheer or clear option so you can get coverage without the common, white residue.
And if you are experiencing dry skin, I would suggest a hydrating sunscreen, such as this Hydrating Daily Defense SPF 40.
I hope busting these sunscreen myths and sharing the types of sunscreens you can use depending on your skin needs is valuable for you.
If you’d like to get your own affordable and skin-safe sunscreen options I recommend to my clients, head to Shea Clinical Skin Care Sun Care Products!