We're debunking some summer health myths
Darker skin and SPF
You may have heard a rumor that people with darker skin can't get sunburned, so they don't need to apply sunblock. While it's true that people with melanin-rich skin don't burn as easily (although they can burn), they're still susceptible to harmful UVA and UVB rays. Since skin cancer doesn't discriminate, it's essential that anyone spending time outdoors slather on SPF 30 or higher and reapply as needed. Here's list of the worst sunscreens.
Base tans
If you've heard someone say they just need to get a base tan (which usually means an initial sunburn) before they're burn-proof for the summer, you may want to tell them the Centers for Disease Control disagrees. According to them, "a base tan is not a safe tan." It turns out that any tan is essentially an injury to the skin. Plus, research suggests that sunburns at any age increase our risk of developing melanoma—a less common but far more dangerous form of skin cancer.
Clouds and sun protection
If it's a cool, cloudy day, you don't have to worry about applying sunblock or wearing protective clothing, right? Wrong! 80 percent of the sun's ultraviolet rays are able to penetrate through cloud cover, meaning even on an overcast day, you could get a sunburn. Basically you need to wear SPF 30 or more each and every time you step foot outdoors.
Clothes and SPF
You're at the beach and, smartly, you wore loose, cool fabrics to keep you comfortable while also blocking harmful sun rays. No need to add SPF when you're all covered up, right? Unfortunately, no. The lighter the clothing, the less likely it is to protect you from harmful UV rays. Since only tightly woven, heavy-weight fabrics offer solid sun protection, you definitely still need SPF 30 or higher when you're outdoors, even if you're covered from head to toe.
Sunblock equality
With all the choices, it may be confusing as to which SPF brand is right for you. The sun protection factor (that's what SPF stands for) only measures how much UVB light is blocked. Look for sunscreens that have "broad spectrum" listed, as they protect against dangerous UVA rays, too. As a rule of thumb, everyone should be wearing at least a broad spectrum SPF 30 sunblock to keep their skin safe.
Butter and sunburns
Please don't reach for a stick of butter as some sort of healing balm for sunburned skin. Not only does the fat actually trap harmful heat in your skin, but it can delay the healing process. While adding moisture to dry, burnt skin is helpful, it's important to use products that will allow the skin to breathe (like aloe vera gel) and leave the butter for morning toast.
