Sunscreen is a vital tool in protecting our skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, it’s not uncommon for various myths and misconceptions to circulate around the topic of sunscreens. To help you navigate through the sunscreen maze, let’s shed some light on the most common sunscreen myths and present the facts supported by scientific research. By separating fact from fiction, we can make informed decisions about sun protection and ensure the health and well-being of our skin. So, let’s dive in and discover the truth behind sunscreen 12 myths versus the evidence-based facts.
1 | Myth – Sunscreen is only needed in summer and isn’t necessary if you stay indoors or during cloudy days
Fact: UV rays are present year-round and can penetrate clouds and windows (up to 80% can penetrate through clouds). Broad-spectrum sunscreen daily use is recommended to protect the skin against UVB (burning) rays and UVA rays (ageing, oxidative stress, and skin damage).
2 | Myth – Darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen
Fact: Although higher melanin levels provide some natural protection, all skin tones are susceptible to sun damage and should use sunscreen regularly. Fair-skinned and red-haired people need to protect themselves more.
3 | Myth – Sunscreen causes vitamin D deficiency
Fact: Sunscreen use does not cause Vitamin D deficiency, because Vitamin D intake from sun exposure alone is not enough for the daily required dose. Only when the UV Index is 3 or above (such as during summer), most people maintain adequate vitamin D levels with a daily exposure of 10 to 30 minutes.
4 | Myth – Waterproof sunscreens are effective all-day
Fact: No sunscreen is entirely waterproof or sweatproof. It’s essential to reapply sunscreen every two/three hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
5 | Myth – Oral Sunscreen pills can protect from UV rays
Fact: Oral sunblock can’t replace a topical sunscreen, rather boost the protection against harmful UV of your sunscreen by limiting oxidative damage from the inside. Oral sunblock usually contains strong antioxidants that can reduce free radicals.
6 | Myth – All sunscreen ingredients are harmful to coral reefs
Fact: Not all ingredients are bad for the environment. Some chemical sunscreens ingredients like oxybenzone and octinoxate can contribute to coral bleaching and interfere with the food chain of marine ecosystems. Opt for reef-safe sunscreens with alternative ingredients such as Zinc Oxide and Titanium oxide.
7 | Myth – Applying a high SPF sunscreen means you can stay out in the sun longer
Fact: SPF measures protection against UVB rays (and not UVA rays as well), not the duration of sun exposure. Regardless of SPF, regular reapplication every 2/3 hours is recommended.
8 | Myth – Just a high SPF makes a good sunscreen
Fact: SPF shields only UVB rays, while you must also shield UVAs. A good sunscreen is broad-spectrum and combines filters for all UV rays. Look for SPF and PA ratings. A good option is SPF 50 + PA +++
9 | Myth – Nano particles are bad
Fact: Nanoparticles (i.e. ‘micronized zinc oxide’ on the labels) are smaller than 100 nanometers, so recent research has shown that the skin’s stratum corneum prevents transdermal absorption.
10 | Myth – Zinc oxide causes white cast
Fact: The white cast effect of a sunscreen is caused by non nano zinc oxide, as the particles stick onto dry patches of the skin, especially when it is not properly hydrated and moisturized. A good sunscreen formula with hydrating and moisturizing ingredients prevents the dreaded white cast effect.
11 | Myth – Using expired sunscreen is still ok
Fact: Sunscreens are lotions that expire like every other skincare products. Expired sunscreen may lose its effectiveness and fail to provide adequate UV protection. It’s best to discard and replace expired sunscreen to ensure proper sun protection.
12 | Myth – Sunscreens with mosquito repellant are good
Fact: When sunscreens are formulated with mosquito repellant like Deet (N,N-Diethyl-m-toluamide), their efficacy is significantly diminished – sometimes by more than 30 %. Plus, you may increase the chance of skin irritation.
DQH Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C?
It’s easy to create a skincare routine, but knowing how to use it is another thing entirely. In most cases, if you’re not getting the desired skin results, it could be due to the layering of conflicting ingredients. So, is it possible that salicylic acid and vitamin C are such ingredients? Or are these active ingredients the duo that’s been missing from your skincare routine? If you want answers, stick around because today we are going to explain the benefits of salicylic acid and vitamin C and how they can be used in your daily life.
What are the benefits of salicylic acid for skin?
Salicylic acid is one of the most commonly used beta hydroxy acids and is favored by many people with oily, acne-prone skin. This acid is derived from willow bark, and unlike its water-soluble relatives (called alpha-hydroxy acids), salicylic acid is oil-soluble, which means it can penetrate deeper into the lower layers of the skin. Once it reaches the lower layers, it can help unclog pores of excess sebum, dirt, bacteria, debris, and impurities. This results in clearer skin tones and greater definition.
Not only does salicylic acid benefit the underlying layers, but the outer surface of the skin benefits as well. When applied to the skin, salicylic acid removes the buildup of dead skin cells. This is accomplished by breaking the bonds that hold dead cells to the surface. Over time, this can cause the complexion to look dull and prone to acne, blackheads, and other blemishes.
If you’d like to learn more about salicylic acid and how it can improve your skin, check out this dedicated blog post from a beauty insider.
What are the benefits of vitamin C for skin?
Vitamin C is considered one of the most powerful antioxidants, which means it is very effective at fighting free radicals and preventing them from causing further skin damage. Examples of free radicals include pollution, central heating, UV rays and harsh climate. They attack proteins, fats and cell membranes as soon as they come into contact with the skin, causing signs of premature aging such as fine lines and wrinkles as well as hyperpigmentation, flaky patches of skin and loss of elasticity.
Many people usually prefer to use vitamin C in their morning routine as this ingredient gives the complexion a radiant glow. You’ll also find that vitamin C can target areas of hyperpigmentation, plumping the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
The thing about vitamin C is that there are a lot of outdated studies going back to the 1950s that describe vitamin C as an unstable skin component. Thanks to improvements in modern technology, this is no longer the case as all products now contain a stable form of vitamin C.
Visit The Beauty Insider to learn more about vitamin C. So please check out our blog post.
Can I use salicylic acid first and then vitamin C?
Yes, you absolutely can. In fact, it’s thought that using salicylic acid before using vitamin C ensures it penetrates faster and works faster.
This is an efficient way to utilize two power sources, and the reason has to do with pH. For example, the skin’s natural pH is about 4.7, making it slightly acidic. Salicylic acid and vitamin C are also both acidic, and you’ll find that vitamin C is absorbed quickly into the skin. Therefore, using salicylic acid beforehand can increase the acidity of the skin and allow vitamin C to penetrate into the skin faster.
While this is considered an effective way to combine two powerful ingredients, you need to be aware of your skin type and how it reacts to certain active ingredients. Even people with perfect, normal skin can experience skin sensitivity and irritation. Therefore, always consult a doctor or dermatologist before using any new products on your skin.
It’s also important to follow skin application rules. In this case, you need to use the product correctly to ensure you get the best results for your skin. If you’re not sure what I mean, the basic rule for skin is to start with the thinnest consistency and work your way up to the thickest consistency. This prevents a barrier from forming on the surface, preventing other active ingredients from penetrating the skin.
Can I use salicylic acid at night and vitamin C in the morning?
Yes, absolutely, this is considered the most effective way to get returns without any adverse side effects. This is because there is enough time between applications to ensure that the skin’s pH levels return to balance.
You’ll also find that Vitamin C is rich in antioxidants and is perfect for use in the morning to ensure your skin is protected and looking its healthiest. Due to the small size of salicylic acid molecules, it is an acid that is able to reach the deepest parts of the skin. While this is effective at keeping skin clear, it also increases the risk of irritation and photosensitivity. Therefore, many people prefer to use powerful BHAs in their evening routine without exposure to UV rays, pollution, or harsh weather.
Warning: If you avoid using sunscreen every day, none of these ingredients will do what your skin needs. The combination of chemical peels and powerful ingredients increases the risk of further damage to the skin’s surface. Use SPF 50 every day to keep your skin protected and your lipid barrier healthy, even on cloudy days, keeping your skin in top condition.
