Countdown Day 6!

It’s Day 6 of the Countdown to the release of Perfectly Planned! Chloe doesn’t leave home without wearing SPF 50 sunscreen. Thought I’d bust 6 myths about sun protection.

Myth #1: You don’t need sunscreen if you already have a tan.

Fact: A base tan is no substitute for sunscreen. Everybody, regardless of race or skin type, is at risk. Even people who tan easily should use sunscreen.

Myth #2: Sunscreen with SPF-30 provides twice as much protection as SPF-15.

Fact: No. Sunscreen with SPF-15 protects against 93% of UVB rays, SPF-30 97%, and SPF-50 protects against 98% of UVB rays. Most experts believe SPF-30 is enough, provided you use it properly. Keep in mind – SPF ratings only apply to UVB (burning rays) protection. Look for sunscreens labeled Broad-Spectrum for UVA (aging rays) protection.

Myth #3: The amount of sunscreen you use doesn’t matter, as long as you use it.

Fact: Most people don’t use enough or don’t re-apply every 2 hours as recommended. At least one ounce or 2 tablespoons (the equivalent of a shot glass) is needed for most adults. Apply it 15-20 minutes before going outside to allow it time to absorb into the skin. Waterproof sunscreens lose some of their effectiveness after 40 minutes in the water.

Also, 80% of the sun’s ultraviolet rays can pass through clouds. UV rays can be reflected off sand, water, and snow and can penetrate car windows as well. I’ve seen skin cancers on a truck driver’s left arm and hand.

Myth #4: Sunscreen blocks the body from absorbing Vitamin D.

Fact: Using sunscreen does not block the body’s ability to make vitamin D. In fact, the amount of sun exposure you need for your daily vitamin D is minimal. Most people get enough by doing everyday outdoor activities. In the winter, you can boost your vitamin D by eating foods such as fish, milk, and eggs.

Myth #5: Using sunscreen will prevent skin cancer completely.

Honey, put a hat on!

Fact: Wearing sunscreen everyday reduces the risk of developing skin cancer. However, many people still get sunburned while using sunscreen because they don’t use it properly. You can also:

• Stay out of the sun between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
• Wear sun protection rated clothing (long sleeved shirts and pants) and hats. Use an umbrella at the beach.
• Wear sunglasses that protect from both UVA and UVB rays.

Myth #6: Tanning beds are safer than getting a natural tan.

Fact: NO. It’s the opposite. Tanning beds increase your risk of skin cancer ten-fold. Completely avoid tanning beds! 

“It doesn’t matter what form of sun protection you choose, make sure you put something between your skin and the sun.”  Chloe’s thinking of using Rip

There you have it – so get outside and enjoy the day – but wear your SPF-30! Join me tomorrow for 5 tricks for adding extra nutrition to everyday meals. Enter the Rafflecopter each day to increase your chances of winning – only 2 days left to join in! And if you haven’t read Perfectly Honest – now’s the time to catch up. It’s on sale for $0.99 (only on amazon.com – sorry about that .ca people). See you tomorrow!

Perfectly Planned is available for pre-order now! Click HERE