Top 10 Sun Protection Myths
Sun safety advice has gone off the rails. Think conspiracy theories about sunscreen and the myth that melanin is a magical shield. It's time to set the record straight. Dive in, learn and protect yourself with these top 10 sun protection myths...
"There’s no such thing as a healthy tan. Only sun damage in disguise.”
1. "It’s cloudy, so I’m good."
Up to 80% of UV rays sneak through clouds. The sun doesn’t care about your weather app.
2. “I’ve got melanin, so I don’t need sunscreen.”
Everyone, regardless of skin tone, needs sun protection. Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate.
3. “I only need sunscreen at the beach.”
The sun is everywhere. Walking the dog? Driving? Sitting near a window? You're getting UV exposure.
4. “A base tan protects me.”
That “protective tan” is actually damaged skin. A base tan gives you about SPF 3.
5. "My makeup has SPF, I’m covered."
Unless you're caking on your foundation like a frosted cupcake, makeup with SPF is not enough. SPF ratings are based on using 1/4 teaspoon on your face, way more than most people use. Blending, buffing and sheering further reduces SPF coverage.
6. “Sunscreen is waterproof.”
The FDA doesn’t allow any sunscreen to be labeled "waterproof" or "sweatproof" because it’s simply not true. Sunscreen wears off in water or with heavy sweating. Instead, sunscreens can be labeled as water-resistant (will stay effective for 40-80 minutes while in the water).
7. “One application lasts all day.”
Sunscreen breaks down with UV exposure over time and wipes off with sweat, water and physical activity. Reapply every two hours to protect yourself.
8. “The shade is protecting me.”
UV rays bounce off water, sand, and even concrete. If you're outdoors, you need sunscreen.
9. "MY REGULAR CLOTHES WILL PROTECT ME."
Only if your clothes have a UPF rating. The average white cotton T-shirt has a UPF of 5-8, meaning it allows about 1/5th to 1/8th of UV rays to pass through. JOJU sun shirts have a UPF ratings of 50+, blocking 98% of UV rays.
10. "Kids don’t need much sun protection.”
Children’s skin is more sensitive, and sun damage in early years increases lifetime skin cancer risk.
