Sunscreen & Sunburn: The Myths & Facts with Chartered Chemist Bruce Green
Myth: If I sit in the shade & never in direct sunlight, I don’t need to use sun protection
FACT: The damaging UV rays from the sun are reflected from the sand, sea, snow, water and other surfaces and so sun damage can occur whilst you are sitting in the shade. Regardless of whether you are in the shade or fully exposed to the sun’s rays, you must take sun protection seriously and use an SPF 30 or above.
The SPF number indicates the time of protection after application – so if your skin type allows 10 minutes of sunlight without burning, an SPF 10 will give a self-protection time of 10 x 10 = 100 minutes. BUT this is an approximation – weather and geographic location plays an important factor.
Always remember that UVB rays can never / seldom be totally filtered so it is important to re-apply SPF protection at least every 2 hours.
I always recommend applying SOS SPF 50 to your face as the last step in your skincare routine and don’t forget the neck area. Also, I recommend re-application 30 minutes prior to sun exposure. This gives the unique formulation time to be absorbed for maximum protection.
SOS SPF 50 formulation is unique in that it does not leave an oily film on the skin’s surface, and it is an excellent moisturiser. It is acceptable and beneficial to use it after cleansing and before you apply your favourite makeup.
Myth: Water resistant products protect me while I am in the water and I don’t need to re-apply them when I sunbathe
FACT: Water resistant products do afford protection in the water, but you need to take care – depending on how long you are in the water and what activities you do, the sun cream may be totally or partially lost and almost certainly removed when you towel dry. The only safe advice is to regularly re-apply the sun cream – especially after towelling.
Always ensure you use a water-resistant SPF 30 or above; SOS SPF 50 is water resistant (hence the Gore-Tex texture). We recommend re-application every few hours when in direct sunlight – lots of swimming and sweating, then apply more frequently. But apply liberally and uniformly for the best protection possible.
Myth: I do not need to use a sunscreen when the weather is cooler
FACT: When it is cool but bright, there are still lots of UV rays so sun protection all year round is a must. Its also important to remember that sun exposure that does not result in burning can still cause damage to the skin cells and increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK and melanoma is rising faster than any other type of deadly cancer. Don’t assume that because you live in a cooler climate there is little risk of sun damage – skin damage can occur from exposure on cloudy or overcast days.
Myth: Sunscreens with a high SPF prevent damage from the sun’s rays
FACT: The higher the SPF number the more protection there is from burning caused by UVB radiation. Whilst sunburn is mainly caused by UVB rays, research now shows that UVA rays may be just as, if not more important in causing premature skin ageing and skin cancer. Broad-spectrum sunscreens give protection against both; however you also need to check the UVA protection.
The UVA Star Rating System gives a good indication of the quality of protection against UVA rays with 5 stars being the highest level of UVA protection.
SOS SPF 50 Offers Broad Spectrum Protection. It has been tested according to the Boots rating system and has been given a rating of 5* Ultra. The PPD equates to 20.
Myth: I use fake tan regularly which gives me a lovely golden-brown colour, so I don’t feel the need to cover up and protect my skin in the sun.
FACT: Using fake tan products is a great way to achieve that bronze look but don’t be fooled when stepping out into the sun. Most tanning products do not offer protection against sunlight so you will still need to apply sun protection and follow all the safety tips when you are out an about in the sun.
Five Deadly Skin Cancer Facts:
1. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK
2. More people die from skin cancer in the UK than Australia
3. Malignant melanoma (the deadliest form of skin cancer) is one of the most common cancers in young adults.
4. Over 11,500 cases of malignant melanoma are diagnosed every year.
5. 80% of all skin cancers are caused by over-exposure to the sun and /or sunbeds.