5 myths about tanning!
10 July 2020 Estimated time: ~2 min.
From what has been written and studied about skin tanning, it would seem that everything has become clearer about this controversial topic. These five myths show us that there are still issues to be clarified.
Under the action of sunlight, the skin produces a dark pigment, melanin, as a shield against further damage caused by UV radiation. Tanning is therefore the way in which the skin protects itself from aggression, although for decades it has been associated with health and beauty.
The sun is responsible for skin aging, the increase in cases of allergies and skin cancer and yet, we can’t wait to lay on beach, for a sun bath right? Better we do it knowingly, aware of the risks we face and protecting ourselves as best we can. Because yes, sun-kissed skin is perceived as more attractive, smoother, supple than non-tanned skin. Tan camouflages imperfections as a foundation and diminishes the appearance of cellulite, but, for our own good, the myths related to tanning need to be quickly dispelled.
1. It is enough to use a high SPF cream once a day
Products with sun protection factor do not stop the action of UV rays, only delays it, therefore the cream with SPF must be applied periodically, every 2-3 hours and / or after each bath in the sea or in the pool.
2. UV protection is cumulative
No way. If you use a product with SPF 20 and immediately apply one with SPF 30, you will not get a SPF 50 protection. When applying sunscreens with different SPF at the same time, consider the product with the highest protection factor.
3. It’s okay to apply SPF cream as soon as I lay on the beach
If you do this, for several tens of minutes the skin will be exposed to the sun unprotected, because the product needs time to enter the tissue and to begin its beneficial action. It is ideal to apply the cream with SPF when you are still in the room, or anyways, with about 30 minutes before sun exposure.
4. I won’t get a tan if it’s cloudy
Don’t bet on that. The clouds let 90% of the sun’s rays get through and thus provide the skin with a protection similar to a cream with SPF 3-6. Not a big protections. Therefore, it is necessary to use a product with an SPF 30 at least, in both sunny or cloudy days.
5. Water proof creams will protect me all day at the beach
Unfortunately, this is not the case. The protection capacity of water-resistant solar products is usually tested under the action of fresh water and in the absence of other chemical or mechanical actions that may diminish the protection. Sea salt water, pool chlorine, waves and sand remove much of the sun cream, and if you wipe the skin with a towel, you can remove the final protective layer. Take better precautions and apply sunscreen every two hours and immediately after bathing in the sea or pool.
