Fact v/s Fiction: Sunscreen

Sunscreens are used for protecting skin and these days it is more developed. To understand the use of sunscreens, we need to know little about Ultraviolet (UV) rays. There are two forms of UV rays-UVA and UVB and both the forms can affect skin on exposure.  

Fiction: Sunscreen will prevent the body from absorbing vitamin D

Fact: Vitamin D is a critical nutrient for human health, and the body makes it easily through exposure to UV rays. When you apply sunscreen on the body, the UV rays are blocked. So, theoretically, using sunscreen would prevent a person from getting the proper levels of vitamin D. However, sunlight can penetrate clothing, sunscreens lose their effectiveness over time, and it is likely a person will forget to put sunscreen on every time they see the sun. Many dermatologists suggest that just 5 to 30 minutes of sun exposure preferably with minimal clothing per day can help create the proper amount of vitamin D in the body.

Fiction: Dark skinned people do not need sunscreen

Fact: Melanin acts to diffuse UVB rays and may protect against sunburns, to some extent and so some people believe that those with more melanin in their skin do not need to use sunscreen. While people with darker skin are more protected from the sun, they should still use sunscreen. Melanin doesn’t block UVA damage and can lead to premature skin aging and wrinkles. In case of extreme sun exposure, melanin also doesn’t protect the skin. 

Fiction: Sunscreen works better than covering up

Fact: You might think that a layer of sunscreen makes the body invincible to the sun. Many people who wear sunscreen believe this allows them to stay protected throughout the day, even if you apply twice to thrice in a day and much of the skin is exposed. The truth is covering up the skin is much better protection than sunscreen. A long-brimmed hat and covered clothing will protect the skin better in combination with sunscreen. You can carry a scarf around for covering up. 

Fiction: Sunscreen helps you avoid the tan.

Fact: Protecting against UVA and UVB rays is important to avoid the tan and sunscreen does help in doing that but it may not protect the body completely. There is still a possibility to get a tan while using sunscreen, even when someone applies it multiple times throughout the day. Getting a tan is the body’s natural protective response to UV exposure and to avoid a tan, it is best to use both ways in combination which includes applying sunscreen and covering up with a hat and long clothing.

Over to you

People feel that applying sunscreen once a day is enough but the truth is one application doesn’t last the whole day, instead it breaks down in the light and loses its effectiveness over a short period of time. Applying sunscreen every two to four would be sufficient. 

Also, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist in case your skin is sensitive or if you feel the need to ask which type of sunscreen would be best suitable for your skin.