You probably feel like you’ve seen them all and know everything you gotta know.
However, some of what you believe may not actually be the truth.
That is why we wanted to set the record straight, once and for all.
I spoke with three top dermatologists to get the average misconceptions people have about sunscreens.
See what they said to double-check you’re not one of the false believers.
There are two categories of sunscreens: chemical and physical.
“Chemical sunscreens are absorbed into the skin where they absorb UV rays,” explainedDr.
Jessica Weiser of New York Dermatology Group.
She further explained that these chemical sunscreens require 20-30 minutes to become active.
Meaning you have to apply any chemical sunscreens 20-30 minutes before heading outside.
“Typically, physical sunscreen contains either zinc oxide or titanium dioxide,” Dr. Weiser explained.
“These physical products work immediately on contact.”
She also noted that physical sunscreens can cause less irritation since most contain just one active ingredient.
“These are not the best sunscreens,” saidDr.
Skin cancer and SPF specialistDr.
Craig Kraffertagrees with Dr. Moy.
“Chemical sunscreens are the best sunscreens for protecting the skin.”
So it’s up to you to figure out which is best for you and your skin.
Consult your dermatologist if you’re concerned.
“Sunscreens block only a percentage of the light damaging the skin over a day.”
So just be aware, sunscreen is not completely and totally effective in blocking sunlight.
Only avoiding the sun completely or wearing sun-protective clothing can do that.
Technically, you’re protecting against both UVB and UVA rays.
While UVB rays are the ones responsible for sunburns, UVA are the ones that create long-term skin damage.
The SPF number is simply a reflection of the UVB ray protection.
For protection of UVA rays, you have to look at the broad spectrum.
“Broad Spectrum is important in minimizing sun damage and melanoma risk.”
“Tanning beds emit mostly UVA-1 rays which are the most difficult rays to protect against.”
So the safest answer to tanning beds is just to avoid them at all costs.
Sunscreen clogs pores and causes acne
We’veallheard this one before, especially if you have acne-prone skin.
While it can be true in some cases, it’s not true for all sunscreens on the market.
For instance, micronized zinc oxide in small particles does not cause occlusion or lead to acne breakouts.
Therefore, it is key that acne-prone skin types using these types of medications should consistently wear sunscreen.
You just have to find the best one for you.
“Titanium dioxide has been shown in some circumstances to be slightly more comedogenic,” Dr. Wesier explained.
“Therefore acne-prone patients should ideally tend towards zinc based products.”
However, people still don’t believe that going SPF-free on cloudy fall days will cause any harm.
However, that is completely false.
“Sun damage is cumulative and exposure occurs year-round,” explained Dr. Kraffert.
“Repetitive unprotected brief sunlight exposures cause significant cumulative damage and skin aging.”
“There’s been more skin cancer or damage on the left side of the face.”
He also pointed out that most ultraviolet rays penetrate clouds.
So even if it looks like you don’t need it, apply it.
Better safe than sorry, right?
Understanding how to protect your skin
As Dr. Kraffert put it, “Sunscreen is a tool.
The challenge is not sunscreen itself.
The real issue is that optimal sun protection is an ongoing work project.
It pays off in amazing ways but requires diligent faithful product tool over a lifetime.”
You always knew sunscreen was important, living in the 21st century and all.
However, using the “tool” correctly is just as important as using the tool at all.
So just verify you get your facts straight and understand the best way to protect your skin.
