Myths About Using Sunscreen Lotions

Skin Care

oi-Cara

By Cara

Monday, March 22, 2010, 15:14

Protecting our skin from the intense sunrays is vital. Using sunscreen lotions are the most obvious way of protecting ourself from the sun rays. However, there are many myths and misconceptions circulating the use of sunscreen lotions.

Myth No. 1

Sunscreen lotions prevent sun burns

Sunburns are caused not merely because of UV exposure but largely because of lack of antioxidants. Therefore only using sunscreen lotions will not protect you against sun burns.

Drinking plenty of water, eating fresh friuts like carrots and berries build up an internal protection against sunburns. Sunburns are actually caused by nutritional deficiencies that leaves the skin vulnerable to DNA mutations.

Myth No. 2

Sunscreen should be applied on exposed skin only

Applying sunscreen only to that part of the skin which is exposed to the sunrays is a faux pas. Instead it is important to cover your entire body with an SPF containing lotion. This is the best way of protecting the skin from harmful UV rays.

Myth No. 3

Sunscreen With SPF 30 provides double protection

The SPF content in a sunscreen lotion depends on your skin type. The minimum level of SPF should be 15. However, those with an SPF level of 30 does not provide double protection.

A sunscreen with an SPF of 15 provides protection against 93 per cent of UV rays, while one with an SPF of 30 provides 97% protection. However, some skin types are not suitable for higher SPF levels. So use the one which suits your skin.

Myth No. 4

Applying sunscreen lotion once a day is sufficient

The effect of the sunscreen lotion remains for only two hours. If you go out in the sun for the whole day, applying sunscreen just once in the morning will not make any difference. Exposure to Sun with a single application of sunscreen can have the same effect as not using it.

Myth No. 5

Dark Skin Doesn't Require Sunscreen

It is a misconception that those having a dark complexion do not need to use sunscreen. Using sunscreen is not meant to retain the fair complexion of the skin but to protect it from the harmful effects of the sunrays. People having a dark complexion also need to protect their skin against the UV rays and hence should use sunscreen on a daily basis.