3 Sunscreen Myths Debunked to Protect Yourself this Summer

Sunscreens have been taking the skincare world by storm and rightfully so! Daily application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen prevents skin cancer, combats signs of aging and discoloration, and protects the skin barrier. With so many benefits, there’s no question if we should all be wearing it, but how do we make sure we’re getting the right one? (ps, SPF in makeup doesn’t count) These are some debunked myths about sunscreen so we can all make sure we’re the best protected this summer.

Myth: All sunscreens are the same. 

Not all sunscreens are created equal, which is great because that means there’s one for everyone! When looking for the right sunscreen, you want to consider a couple of things: the SPF, the spectrum of protection, and how the sunscreen blocks harmful rays.

First, a good daily sunscreen should be at least 30 SPF and have broad spectrum protection, meaning against both UVA and UVB rays. They both cause different types of damage but simply, UVA rays cause premature aging and wrinkles, and UVB rays cause burns and thus, skin cancer.

Choosing how you want to protect your skin is more of a personal preference. There are physical (aka mineral) sunscreens and chemical sunscreens. Both have pros and cons to consider. Physical sunscreen is better at skin protection but it can leave a white cast, making it less ideal for melanated folks, especially if the formula is un-tinted. Also, because this type of sunscreen is physically blocking the UVA & UVB rays, it’s important to get a water and sweat-resistant formula to make sure your skin is protected all day.

Chemical sunscreens absorb the UVA & UVB rays so your skin doesn’t have to. With these formulas, the protection is still good, but you need to wait for 15-20 after application before going in the sun and you likely will need to reapply as the sun-protecting properties can fade throughout the day. However, chemical sunscreens don’t leave a white cast and can typically incorporate different skincare benefits and finishes ie: a moisturizing sunscreen with a glowy finish.

Myth: You only need sunscreen if you’re going outside. 

I, unfortunately, have to report that if you’re like me and work in an office all day, you’re still not safe from skin damage via UVA & UVBs just because you’re indoors. Along with eye strain, long exposure to blue light can also cause premature aging and skin barrier damage. Thankfully sunscreen protects against this damage! One more reason to incorporate sunscreen into your routine!

Myth: Sunscreen will cause breakouts. 

Admittedly, I was very resistant to start using sunscreen because I was convinced it would break me out. As an acne-prone person with very oily skin, I can confidently report that after 4 months of consistent use, using sunscreen hasn’t caused breakouts! In some cases, wearing sunscreen has actually helped people with acne and other issues (ie: rosacea, discoloration, etc.).  After using sunscreen those with certain skin conditions are protected and less irritated by light damage so it allows their skin to recover and their complexion to even out.

Products to Try

Okay, so you’re ready to incorporate sunscreen into your skincare. Here are a couple of products I’d recommend to a friend:

Mineral Sunscreens

Versed: Guards Up Daily Mineral Sunscreen
EltaMD: UV Elements Tinted Broad-Spectrum
Hero Cosmetics: Superlight Sunscreen (I use this one! Great for acne-prone skin in my experience.)

Chemical Sunscreens

(The Viral) Supergoop GlowScreen or Unseen Sunscreen
Black Girl Sunscreen SPF 30
La Roche-Posay Melt-In Sunscreen Milk SPF 60

I have personally either had positive experiences with these brands or seen positive reviews from dermatologists I trust online. Of course, do your own research! There are so many incredible options available I am certain there is one for everyone!