Fact or Fiction? Debunking Sunburn Myths (Part 2)

With the prevalence of the internet, myths, misinformation and ‘fake news’ abound in our society today. Unfortunately, myths surrounding sunburn are all too common. In Part Two of our series: ‘Fact or Fiction: Debunking Sunburn Myths’  you’ll find the facts about six more common myths surrounding sunburn.

Myth: Once You’ve Tanned, You Can’t Burn
Fact: A tan does not protect your skin from the sun. In fact, tanning damages your skin and won’t prevent further damage from ultraviolet rays. Bottom line: you can burn your skin even if you have a great tan!
 
Myth: Sunscreen with a High SPF Is All You Need
Fact: Applying sunscreen is not  ‘set it and forget it’ prevention. Even if you use sunscreen with a high SPF, it will only continue to protect the skin if reapplied every two hours – and even more often if you are swimming.
 
Myth: If You Don’t Feel Hot, You’re Not Getting Burned
Sunburns can sneak up on you. Just because you can’t feel it, doesn’t mean the sun’s ultraviolet rays aren’t wreaking havoc on your skin. You can burn on a windy day on the lake, hiking in the mountains, or skiing down the slopes. Protect your skin whenever you go outdoors – not just when you feel the sun.
 
Myth: Natural Oils Provide Enough Sun Protection
Fact: Just because a product is ‘natural’ doesn’t mean it’s better. Natural oils such as coconut oil maybe be touted as a safer suncreen, but they provided minimal protection from the sun and are not substitutes for broad-spectrum sunscreens.
 
Myth: Peeling Skin After a Sunburn Means the Damage Is Gone
Fact: When your skin peels, the damage to your DNA and skin cells is already done. Your body is just shedding damaged cells. It’s not good news.
 
Myth: Sunscreen Is Toxic and Should Be Avoided
Fact: Unfortunately, social media influencers have spread false information claiming that sunscreen is more toxic than the sun’s ultraviolet rays. Not true. It’s scientifically proven that sunscreen prevents sunburn, skin cancer and even premature aging.
 
Take These Sunburn Myths to Heart
As your mother used to say, ‘Don’t believe everything you hear!’ Just because you see something online or a post from a social media influencer, doesn’t mean it’s true. Believing a sunburn myth can cause serious damage to your skin – even skin cancer.
 
So please, take these sunburn myths to heart and practice safe sun protection.
 
If you have questions about your skin health or would like to schedule your annual skin screen exam, please call at: 601.992.3996