Was sunscreen even a thing back in the 1900s? I remember my grandmother having the best radiant skin and a youthful glow even in her 90s. She religiously used only one face cream all her life which is now known to be full of toxic ingredients.
While that face cream did some magic, I give the main credit for her radiant skin to her healthy eating habits. Despite this, I vividly remember her sagging skin and prominent wrinkles which were natural for her age. If she had used sunscreen, could her wrinkles be any less?
According to scientific research and experiments, sunscreens are proven to be very effective in delaying ageing and giving protection against harmful sun rays.
Yeah, yeah, I know you already know that. However, not many people know how to get the most out of sunscreen. There are quite a few myths that need to be debunked.
1- People with dark skin tones don’t need sunscreen
It’s true, the sun doesn’t visibly affect darker skin like it does lighter skin. However, the harmful rays can promote cancerous cells if the skin is exposed to the sun for a prolonged duration. So better be safe and apply sunscreen whatever skin tone you have.
2- Sunscreen should only be worn under the sun
Sunscreen should only be worn under the sun; that’s kind of true. Since the sun doesn’t go anywhere, whether you see it or not, during the daytime you should be wearing it every single day. Be it sunny or rainy, indoors or outdoors, sunscreen is a must.
3- Applying sunscreen once a day is enough
Once a day is enough if you stay indoors the whole day or don’t go in the water. But if you go out then re-apply sunscreen every 2 hours and re-apply after swimming.
4- Higher SPF means higher protection
Higher SPF does provide better protection in hot sunny regions. But if you live in the cooler regions then higher SPF will provide the same protection as lower SPF. So, no need to run after a higher SPF when a lower SPF will suffice your needs. Similarly, don’t settle for a lower SPF when you really should be using a higher amount.
5- Sunscreen is not necessary if you have a tan
We all live for salty hair and tan lines but do you know a tan is actually the skin damage caused by the sun? Would you want more damage and keep avoiding sunscreen? I hope not.
6- You only need to wear sunscreen on your face
Sunscreen is for skin protection. If you have skin then ask no more and wear the sunscreen. You should especially wear it on areas which are exposed to the sun like the face, neck, arms and legs.
7- Sunscreen is the only protection you need from the sun
No, dear. You need proper sun attire. Long clothes, hats or scarves. Only if you know the damage that sun can cause, you won’t step out bare skin ever.
Start wearing sunscreen regardless of your gender or age. There are special sunscreens for babies. There are spray sunscreens that can be used over makeup. There is makeup with sun protection. You have no excuse to avoid it. (:
Hira is a Computer Science grad, a self-taught copywriter and a blogger on STEEM blockchain. Apart from her passion for writing, she is fond of reading fiction and landscape painting.