Sun Protection Myths that Put Your Skin at Risk

More than 16 million Americans are at an increased risk for skin cancer due to misinformation online about sunscreen use and sun safety. To help set the record straight, Renee Christenson, board-certified physician assistant (PA-C) specializing in dermatology, breaks down common sun protection myths and what they can mean for your skin.

1. Myth: A “base tan” protects your skin from sun damage

Fact: No level of tanning is protective.

“Many people think getting a tan means their skin is becoming stronger or that it will protect them from getting a sunburn,” says Renee Christenson, PA-C. “In reality, a tan is a visible sign of skin damage caused by UV rays.”

When Ultraviolet (UV) rays reach your skin, either from being in the sun or from using tanning beds, they damage the DNA in skin cells. In response, your skin produces more melanin to shield itself from further harm, causing the skin to darken and form a tan.

Although a tan may naturally fade, cumulative skin damage from UV rays leads to premature skin aging (wrinkles, dark spots, uneven skin texture) and a higher risk of skin cancer.

2. Myth: You won’t get enough vitamin D if you apply sunscreen

Fact: Using sunscreen regularly does not prevent healthy vitamin D levels.

Exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays trigger a chemical reaction in the skin that helps your body produce vitamin D. “While sunscreen blocks some UVB rays, we often don’t apply enough, forget to reapply, or miss areas completely,” says Christenson. As a result, some UVB rays can still reach the skin and support vitamin D production. “It’s important to know that ultraviolet radiation is a human carcinogen, so no amount of unprotected UV exposure is recommended,” she adds.

To get vitamin D safely, the American Academy of Dermatology and the Skin Cancer Foundation recommend eating a balanced diet with foods containing vitamin D.

Dietary sources of vitamin D include:

• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, trout, tuna)
• Cod liver oil
• Egg yolks
• Mushrooms
• Milk, yogurt, and orange juice with added vitamin D

If you are concerned about your vitamin D levels, talk to your primary care provider to learn whether vitamin D supplements may be right for you.

3. Myth: You only need sun protection outdoors on sunny days

Fact: UV rays can still damage your skin even when the sun isn’t visible.

“Sun exposure isn’t limited to summer vacations or long days spent outdoors,” says Christenson. UVA rays, a type of UV radiation from the sun, can still reach your skin through clouds and glass.

“Everyday activities like driving, walking to the grocery store, or sitting indoors near a window can all contribute to cumulative skin damage,” she explains.

To protect your skin from daily UV exposure:

• Choose a sunscreen labeled “broad-spectrum,” for protection against UVA and UVB rays.
• Apply SPF 30 daily, or a water-resistant SPF 50 or higher for outdoor activities. Apply to all areas of exposed skin and reapply every two hours.
• Wear protective clothing such as long-sleeved shirts and wide-brimmed hats, preferably with a UPF rating, and UV-blocking sunglasses.

Read more: Protect the Skin You’re In

4. Myth: Sunscreen is waterproof

Fact: There is no sunscreen that is completely waterproof.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t allow sunscreen labels to use the term “waterproof” or “sweatproof” because all sunscreens gradually wear off and break down with water, sweat, or natural skin oils. Instead, sunscreens may be labeled as “water-resistant” only if they’ve met specific testing requirements.
Christenson advises, “Check your sunscreen label instructions before heading outside. Water-resistant products often list protection for either 40 or 80 minutes and still require reapplication when getting out of the water.”

5. Myth: People with deeper skin tones don’t need sun protection

Fact: Sun damage can affect people of all skin tones.

“No skin tone is completely immune to sun damage,” says Christenson. “While deeper skin tones contain more melanin that provide some protection against UV rays, it is not enough to fully prevent sun damage.”

UV exposure can still lead to hyperpigmentation, melasma, premature skin aging, and skin cancer. In fact, people with deeper skin tones are more likely to develop certain skin cancer in areas with little sun exposure, including the:

• Palms of hands
• Soles of feet
• Fingers and toes
• Nailbeds

If you’re unsure about a new or suspicious spot on your skin, visit your primary care provider (PCP) or a dermatology provider.

Protecting your skin starts with understanding the truth behind common sun protection myths. By making informed skincare decisions, you can help reduce your chance of skin damage, premature aging, and skin cancer.

Find an Adventist Health experienced dermatology provider today.