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