The sun is important for our immune system, for the formation of vitamin D and last but not least for our mind. No wonder summer attracts people outside. However, many misconceptions circulate about the proper use of the sun and sun protection. Sun protection is important – that has become common knowledge. But not all the wisdom that circulates is true. Here’s a list to clear up common misconceptions.
1. reapplication of cream extends the protection time
False. The effect of sunscreens lasts only for a certain time. That is, by repeated creaming – useful especially after bathing – you can renew the protection, but not extend it. The opinion that sun protection is no longer necessary for tanned skin is also wrong. The tan only offers a certain protection against the aggressive UV radiation. Tanned skin therefore also suffers damage when exposed to intensive radiation – only the consequences become visible later, for example in the form of premature skin aging and age spots. By the way: if both sunscreen and mosquito repellent are required, always apply the sunscreen first and the (liquid) mosquito repellent on top.
2. you do not get sunburn in the shade
Wrong. The widespread opinion that you do not need to apply sunscreen in the shade is also not true. Up to 85 percent of the radiation intensity is reflected by sand, water or buildings. And even sunshades or clouds do not completely block the sun’s rays. That, by the way, is why sensitive people get sunburned even if they spend all day on the beach under an umbrella. Therefore, even if you don’t go out in the direct sun, you need to put on sunscreen. The good news is that you can also get a tan in the shade – more slowly, but more gently and evenly! And another tip: During the midday period with the particularly intense sunlight, it is best not to be outside at all.
3. you are safe in the water
Not true. The opposite is true – water is even particularly dangerous because the surface of the water reflects the rays. This can intensify the harmful effect of the rays on the parts of the body that are looking out of the water. And even underwater, you’re not safe from the sun – half a meter below the water’s surface, up to 60 percent of UVB and even 85 percent of UVA rays still reach you. In addition, wet skin burns faster than dry skin. Particularly treacherous: Since the skin is cooled while swimming, you often don’t notice the sun until your back is already red. That’s why it’s recommended to use a waterproof sunscreen when swimming. Waterproof products last better and protect the skin better from chlorine or seawater – but here, too, the sunscreen must be renewed regularly by repeated application. For children, even special swimwear with UV protection should possibly be used for splashing in the water.
4. clothing protects against the sun
No! Certain UV rays also penetrate through textiles. Especially tight and light shirts or a wet fabric let the rays through. For example, the skin can be damaged under a light-colored bikini made of thin material. Sunscreen products should therefore also be applied under the bikini or swimsuit half an hour before sunbathing. Tip: There are sunscreen detergents available on the market that – after repeated washing – make clothing more impervious to the sun. It is also helpful to wear loose and rather dark clothing for protection. Special sun-protective clothing with a sun protection factor of 20 to 40 impregnated with sunscreen substances is also available in stores. And do not forget: The head protection and sunglasses!
5.Sunblocks provide protection all day long.
Not true. The name is deceptive: a sunblocker can not endlessly block the sun, but is only characterized by a particularly high sun protection factor (30 and more). The danger here: many people feel securely protected with it and forget to renew the sunscreen at regular intervals and, above all, to apply it evenly. 6 Facts about sun protection – rawpixel
6. dangerous is only a sunburn
Not correct. Responsible for a sunburn are the higher energy UV-B rays. The long-wave UV-A rays, on the other hand, are responsible for tanning the skin, but also for skin aging and the increased risk of skin cancer.Therefore, even without sunburn, UV radiation can damage the skin: The longer you expose yourself to radiation, the higher the risk of suffering permanent damage. Too much sun and heat can also lead to sunstroke, which manifests itself in circulatory problems and nausea.
7. sunscreen with high SPF prevents tanning.
Not true. Many people think that a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) prevents tanning – and instead use products with factors that are too low. But even with a strong sunscreen, you can get a tan, and more gently at that. A high SPF protects against sunburn and helps your tan last longer.
8.Sun allergies come from greasy creams.
True, but only partially! Sun allergies have very different causes: Drugs, fragrances, chlorine or salt water, but also a hereditary predisposition can cause allergic reactions to the UV-A rays in sunlight in sensitive individuals. Oil-based sunscreens can also trigger a sun allergy and lead to so-called Majorca acne (or acne aestivalis in technical terms). Sun allergies can therefore be caused by a sunscreen containing oil, but they do not have to be. Sunscreen products in creams and emulsions are particularly problematic, as they contain emulsifiers that promote an allergic reaction. In the case of Mallorca acne, a sun gel with a high UV-A light protection, which is free of grease and emulsifiers, therefore helps. Attention: also make sure that skin care and after-sun products do not contain emulsifiers. These can namely adhere to the skin for longer than 24 hours and, in combination with UV radiation, lead to intolerance reactions even later.
9. self-tanning products protect the skin
No! The tan from the tube does not provide protection from the sun’s rays, because self-tanners have only a cosmetic effect. They combine with components of the human epidermis in the so-called horny layer and turn the skin surface brown – this does not change the skin’s ability to protect itself from the sun.
