Busting Common SPF Myths!
Suncream is a critical part of protecting your skin from the damaging effects of the sun's UV rays. But, there are common myths that prevent some of us from using this crucial step in our daily skincare routine. Let's take a deeper look at this...
How Does Sunscreen Work?
Suncream works by blocking or absorbing UV rays. There are two main types of UV rays that can damage your skin: UVA and UVB. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and can cause aging and skin cancer, while UVB rays cause sunburn and contribute to skin cancer.
Most SPFs work by using chemicals that absorb UV rays before they can penetrate your skin. These chemicals include avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone, among others. Once absorbed, the chemicals convert the UV rays into heat, which is then released from your skin.
Physical sunscreens, on the other hand, work by creating a physical barrier between your skin and the sun. These suncreams contain ingredients like titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, which reflect UV rays away from your skin.
Do You Still Tan When Wearing Sunscreen?
Contrary to popular belief, wearing sunscreen does not prevent you from tanning. In fact, tanning is your body's way of trying to protect your skin from further damage. When your skin is exposed to UV rays, it produces more melanin, the pigment that gives your skin its color. This extra melanin helps to absorb UV rays and prevent them from causing more damage.
However, it's important to note that tanning is a sign that your skin has been damaged by the sun. Over time, this damage can lead to premature aging, wrinkles, and skin cancer. So while sunscreen won't prevent you from tanning, it will help to reduce your risk of skin damage and protect your skin in the long run.
Can You Absorb Vitamin D Wearing SPF?
Another common myth about sunscreen is that it prevents your body from absorbing vitamin D from the sun. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in bone health, among other things.
While it's true that sunscreen can block some of the UV rays that your body needs to produce vitamin D, it's unlikely to cause a deficiency. Most people can get enough vitamin D from their diet and supplements, even if they're wearing sunscreen regularly.
That said, if you're concerned about getting enough vitamin D, there are other ways to get it besides the sun. Foods like fatty fish, eggs, and fortified milk and cereals are good sources of vitamin D, as are supplements.
So, overall sunscreen works by blocking or absorbing UV rays to protect your skin from damage. Contrary to popular belief, you can still tan when wearing sunscreen, and sunscreen is unlikely to cause a vitamin D deficiency. By using sunscreen regularly, you can help to protect your skin from premature aging and reduce your risk of skin cancer. In essence, there is no excuse not to have an SPF as part of your daily routine!