Various types of sun care products are available - tinted sunscreens, hybrid sunscreens, sunscreen sticks, and moisturizers with SPF. These products aim to shield your skin from the damaging solar rays but are only fully potent when used properly. In this comprehensive guide to sunscreen, we've enlisted Dr. Nkem Ugonabo's expertise to dispel some of the most prevalent myths about sunscreen - including the meaning of SPF, the right time to use sunscreen, and the frequency of reapplication. Subsequently, learn about the contrast between some of the most frequent sunscreen fallacies and facts. Also, consider these following tips when selecting an SPF sunscreen or moisturizer for your daily skincare routine.

Debunking 11 Common Myths about Sunscreen

The importance of daily sun protection[1] cannot be overstated, regardless of one's age, complexion, or way of life. To assist you in maximizing the benefits of your sun protection products, we have assembled a list of 11 common myths about sunscreen that you should be aware of.

 

Myth #1: Sunscreen is not required during winter or when it's cloudy outside 

Many mistakenly believe that sunscreen isn't necessary when the weather is chilly or overcast. However, the reality is that damaging UV rays persist, even under cloudy skies or during the winter season. As reported by the World Health Organization (WHO), snow has the capacity to reflect up to 80% of UV radiation.

"It's important to wear SPF all year round, during both the summer and winter months," says Dr.Ugonabo. "I remind my patients that UV rays are present on cloudy days as well." Her mantra is: "Just because you can't see the sun, doesn't mean it can't see you." In other words, it's just as important to wear sunscreen on days when it's not obviously sunny.

Sun exposure isn't exclusive to outdoor scenarios. Dr. Ugonabo emphasizes that the harmful ultraviolet rays can infiltrate through shadows or glass windows, indicating that these barriers don't offer sufficient defense against the detrimental effects of UVA rays. Consequently, even if you don't intend to venture outside, she advocates for the consistent use of sunscreen. Incorporating sunscreen application into your morning routine can fortify your skin's protection, particularly when unplanned or sudden outings arise.

CeraVe Tip: For those desiring to simplify their skincare routine on days spent indoors, consider integrating CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion into your regimen. This versatile lotion unifies the benefits of broad-spectrum SPF 30, ceramides, and niacinamide to concurrently hydrate and shield your skin from sun damage in a singular application.

*To ensure continuous protection from the sun, remember to reapply the lotion every two hours at a minimum.

Myth #2: Sunscreen is bad for you

Developed with dermatologists, CeraVe's sunscreens[1] products and moisturizers with SPF are designed to be gentle on your skin, fragrance-free, and allergy-tested. "Numerous research studies have demonstrated that wearing sunscreen can minimize short-term and long-term damage to the skin from the sun's rays," explains Dr. Ugonabo.

Furthermore, Health Canada oversees the regulation of sunscreen products to make certain they fulfill their safety and efficacy standards. The latest information regarding the regulations for sunscre 

 

Myth #3: Greater SPF indicates less frequent reapplication is required

“SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. "It correspo

nds to how much UV radiation is needed to produce a sunburn on protected skin, compared to unprotected skin," explains Dr. Ugonabo. "Thus, the higher the SPF number, the higher the protection from a sunburn”.

Based on research from the Canadian Dermatology Association, sunblock products containing SPF 30 provide broad spectrum protection that protects you against UVA and UVB, which are the leading cause of sunburns.

However, it's crucial to understand that using a sunscreen product with an elevated SPF rating doesn't imply less frequent application. According to Dr. Ugonabo, irrespective of the product type or its SPF rating, it's suggested to reapply your sunscreen every two hours when you're outside, and post activities like swimming or any other activity that triggers excessive perspiration. This advice holds true regardless of the SPF value of the product being used.

 

Myth #4: Waterproof sunscreens don't require reapplication

No sunscreen can be deemed entirely "waterproof" or "sweatproof". The term used instead is "water-resistant". Sunscreen formulas that bear the "water-resistant" label are designed to prevent their active ingredients from being rinsed off your skin while you're immersed in water.

However, it's crucial to note that water-resistant sunscreens still necessitate reapplication at minimum intervals of two hours throughout daylight hours, in addition to post-swimming or perspiration instances. Dr. Ugonabo advises, "I recommend carrying a travel-sized version around so that it's easy to reapply".

 

Myth #5: Darker skin tones don't need Sun Protection

Another common misconception is the belief that individuals with darker skin tones do not require sun protection. Some people may be less likely to get sunburned as quickly, but this does not mean that their skin is not affected by sun exposure," explains Dr. Ugonabo. "As a dermatologist, I recommend that everyone— regardless of skin type, tone, or texture-wear sunscreen every day, year-round." All skin tones can experience sun damage, which can lead to skin cancer and visible signs of skin aging. "Many of my melanin-rich patients are concerned by premature aging as well as the worsening of dark spots," she says.

 

Myth #6:There's no need for sunscreen if you stay on the shade

"Seeking shade, such as under an umbrella, can be helpful to protect from the harmful effects of the sun," says Dr. Ugonabo. "However, I don't recommend this as your only method of sun protection." Alongside other preventive actions, such as steering clear of sun exposure during hours of high intensity and wearing protective attire (including headwear, shirts with long sleeves, and eyewear), it's necessary to apply (and reapply) sunscreen consistently every day.

Myth #7:Makeup with SPF is an adequate substitude for sunscreen

While certain makeup contains SPF, they don’t provide adequate protection against the sun's detrimental rays. Hence, even though makeup imbued with SPF 30 or more might afford some degree of safeguarding, it should never be considered a replacement for your regular sunscreen for face[1] or moisturizing lotion containing SPF. Dr. Ugonabo suggests her clients opt for a light sunscreen that doesn't weigh down the skin.[2][3][4]

CeraVe Tip: To hydrate and fortify your skin prior to makeup application, try using a light CeraVe moisturizer that provides broad-spectrum SPF 30 coverage, such as our Ultra-Light Moisturizing Lotion SPF 30.

Myth #8: No requirement for sunscreen while driving or remaining indoors

Sun exposure isn't exclusive to outdoor scenarios. Dr. Ugonabo emphasizes that the harmful ultraviolet rays can infiltrate through shadows or glass windows, indicating that these barriers don't offer sufficient defense against the detrimental effects of UVA rays. Consequently, even if you don't intend to venture outside, she advocates for the consistent use of sunscreen. Incorporating sunscreen application into your morning routine can fortify your skin's protection, particularly when unplanned or sudden outings arise.

CeraVe Tip: For those desiring to simplify their skincare routine on days spent indoors, consider integrating CeraVe AM Facial Moisturizing Lotion into your regimen. This versatile lotion unifies the benefits of broad-spectrum SPF 30, ceramides, and niacinamide to concurrently hydrate and shield your skin from sun damage in a singular application.

*To ensure continuous protection from the sun, remember to reapply the lotion every two hours at a minimum.

Myth #9: All Sunscreen products results in a white-colored cast

Dr. Ugonabo, a renowned dermatologist, addresses the misconception that sunscreens leave a white residue or “white cast”. She explains that modern sunscreens have evolved to blend seamlessly into the skin without leaving a white cast, making them more appealing for everyday use. Additionally, she recommends tinted sunscreens for those with deeper skin tones, highlighting their ability to provide protection while minimizing residue visibility.[1][2][3]

 

Myth #10: Sunscreen usage limits the vitamin D absorption

“Several studies have shown that people can wear sunscreen daily and still maintain adequate levels of vitamin D,” explains Dr Ugonabo. She strongly recommends her patients to rely on dietary sources or vitamin D supplements for their needs, instead of solely depending on sunlight exposure. If uncertainty about your nutritional wellbeing persists, it would be beneficial to seek expert advice from your physician through a scheduled consultation.

 

Myth #11: Sunscreen products never expire

Sunscreen does expire and its expiration date is always listed on the package. The Ottawa Hospital[PA1] notes that sunscreen can still be used for a few months after its expiration date if stored properly away from heat and light. However, dermatologists recommend throwing away any sunscreen past its expiration date since heat or direct sunlight can make it expire faster or work less effectively. If you need help choosing an SPF moisturizer for your skin type and skin concerns, CeraVe offers a tool called “Find My Skincare Solution”o to guide you.

 

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