We bring to light the truth about sun protection
We are currently in the middle of Melanoma Awareness Month so we thought we would would distinguish between the fact and the myths that people seem to have when it comes to protecting their bodies from UV rays.
Myth: When I'm wearing a high factor SPF, I'm protected from all UV rays
Fact: This is not true, there are mainly two different types of rays, UVA which causes ageing and UVB which causes sunburn - both can cause skin cancer. You need a sunscreen that will protect from both. The British Association of Dermatologists recommends to use to a factor of at least 30 (50 for children) and to protect against UVA, look to the Persistent Pigment Darkening (PPD) count - the higher the number the more protection.
Myth: Wearing waterproof sunscreens will keep you safe
Fact: They do offer protection whilst in the water, but once you've left the water you need to make sure you reapply. Apply sunscreen regularly throughout the day - receommend for every 2 hours.
Myth: You don't need to wear any sunscreen when you are in the water
Fact: Make sure that you apply waterproof sunscreen before going into the water - anything else will wash off. Water also reflects UVB rays, which increase the chance of burning so make sure you are fully prepared.
Myth: You don't need to worry about sun damage if it's cloudy
Fact: It's essential to wear sun protection even on cloudy days during the summer months. UVA rays are strong and penetrate through clothing, glass and clouds.
Myth: Sun beds only damage your skin if you use them over a long period of time
Fact: Sun beds are damaging to the skin from the first time that you use them. Using them before the age of 35 increases your chances of developing melanoma skin cancer by 75 per cent.
Myth: Using the same bottle of sunscreen for years is perfectly OK, as it doesn't have an expiry date
Fact: All beauty products have a shelf-life, look to the individual bottle to see what it is and don't use it after that date, otherwise your skin will not be protected from harmful rays. Make sure to store all sunscreen in a shaded and cool area.
Myth: Aftersun lotion minimises sun damage to your skin
Fact: It cannot reverse the damage which is already caused - it only contains vitamins that will help to soothe sunburn.
Myth: The SPF that is in my cosmetics is adequate enough for skin protection
Fact: They are only good enough for short periods in the sun - wear sunscreen underneath your make-up if you plan to be in the sun longer tham 10-15 minutes.
Myth: You can't burn through your clothing
Fact: Not all of fabrics protect from harmful rays - especially the lighter ones. Make sure you wear sunscreen underneath you clothes to help protect effectively.
Myth: Don't wear sunscreen so that you can get the Vitamin D you need
Fact: Only a couple of minutes in the sun each day unprotected will increase your levels of Vitamin D. Make sure that you wear sunscreen during the hottest points of the day between 11am and 3pm.