Summer is here. BBQs, lake days, and outdoor outings fill up everyone’s social calendars, and with days of seemingly endless sunshine, it’s hard to remember responsibilities. Still, the sun doesn’t take a vacation, and it’s important to stay vigilant and protect your skin during the hottest season of the year.
Just in time for UV Safety Awareness Month, we’re debunking five myths about sunscreen to help keep you safe in the sunshine.
Myth: Tanning is safe as long as you don’t burn
Unfortunately for all the sun worshippers out there, there’s no such thing as a safe tan. Even 15 minutes of unprotected exposure is harmful to the skin and can lead to sun damage and, worse, skin cancer.
One of the largest misconceptions is that a “base tan” is commonly considered safe, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Any form of tan is evidence of damage: In fact, the reason skin gets darker in the sun is that it’s redistributing melanin to protect itself.
Myth: You only need sunscreen on sunny days
Get in the habit of applying sunscreen every day and reap the benefits. Just because it’s not sunny out doesn’t mean you’re protected from harmful UV rays. Both UVB and UVA rays can penetrate clouds, meaning you’ll still need sunscreen. Lather up and protect yourself, even when it looks like rain.
Myth: All sunscreen works immediately
There are two different types of sunscreen, physical and chemical. Physical sunscreen contains zinc oxide and other minerals, sits on top of the skin, and reflects UV rays — it works immediately after application. Chemical sunscreen, on the other hand, contains avobenzone and oxybenzone, absorbs UV rays, and takes at least 15 minutes to work.
While there are pros and cons to both, it’s important to try out different types and find out what works best for your skin and your needs.
Myth: The SPF in my makeup is enough
Unless you’re caking on multiple thick layers of your foundation with SPF, you likely aren’t getting enough sun protection from your makeup. While it’s a great addition to your daily facial sunscreen, if you only apply a thin layer of the product, it’s not a replacement for sunscreen.
Myth: Waterproof sunscreen doesn’t need reapplication
The claim of waterproof sunscreen is in and of itself a myth. While sunscreens can be water-resistant, most will still require reapplication every two hours, especially when exposed to water which ultimately will wash away the protective layer.
Protecting your skin from UV rays is important and significant, but it can be tough to tell what you need to not only protect your skin preemptively but correct existing damage. We have you covered.
This month we’re offering multiple specials* tailored to your UV protection and correction needs:
- 20% off all sunscreen purchases
- A free sunscreen and add-on with the purchase of a HydraFacial
- A free Antioxidant Lip Repair with the purchase of SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic and H.A. Intensifier
Give us a call to jump-start your summer safety and summer fun: (208) 888-0660.
*Offers expire 7/31/2023.