Most of us have experienced the pain and discomfort of sunburn at some point in our lives. Sunburn can be a serious problem, not only because it’s painful and uncomfortable, but also because it can cause long-term damage to your skin.

Despite the risks, there are many myths surrounding how to treat and prevent sunburn, and it’s important to separate fact from fiction to keep yourself safe in the sun.

Myth #1: You can’t get sunburned on a cloudy day

Many people believe that you can’t get sunburned on a cloudy day, but this is simply not true. Up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can pass through clouds, and even on an overcast day, you can still get sunburned.

It’s important to wear sunscreen, even on cloudy days, to protect your skin.

Myth #2: Sunscreen is only necessary in the summer

Some people believe that sunscreen is only necessary in the summer when the sun is strongest, but this is not true either. UV rays can penetrate clouds and are present even on cool, overcast days.

It’s important to wear sunscreen every day, especially on your face and hands, which are exposed to the sun year-round.

Myth #3: A base tan will protect you from sunburn

Some people believe that getting a base tan before going on vacation will protect them from sunburn, but this is a dangerous myth.

A base tan offers very little protection against the sun’s UV rays, and can actually increase your risk of skin damage and skin cancer. A tan is a sign of skin damage, and any color change in your skin due to tanning or sunburn is a sign of damage to your DNA.

Myth #4: Sunscreen is waterproof

No sunscreen is truly waterproof, despite what the label may say. Sunscreen is water-resistant, meaning it will stay on your skin for a certain amount of time while swimming or sweating, but it will eventually wear off.

It’s important to reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

Myth #5: A higher SPF is always better

A higher SPF does offer more protection against the sun’s UV rays, but it does not provide complete protection. SPF 30 is generally recommended as a minimum, but no sunscreen can provide 100% protection against the sun.

It’s important to reapply sunscreen frequently, regardless of the SPF, to ensure your skin is protected.

Myth #6: You don’t need sunscreen if you have dark skin

It’s a common myth that people with dark skin don’t need to wear sunscreen, but this is not true.

While people with darker skin tones are less likely to get sunburned, they are still at risk of skin damage and skin cancer from the sun’s UV rays. It’s important for everyone to wear sunscreen, regardless of their skin color.

Myth #7: Sunburn only affects fair-skinned people

While fair-skinned people are more likely to get sunburned, anyone can get sunburned regardless of their skin color. Everyone is at risk of skin damage and skin cancer from the sun’s UV rays, regardless of their skin tone.

It’s important to protect your skin by wearing sunscreen and practicing other sun-safe behaviors.

Myth #8: You only need to apply sunscreen once a day

Many people believe they only need to apply sunscreen once a day, but this is not true. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.

Even if you’re not swimming or sweating, you should still reapply sunscreen frequently throughout the day to ensure your skin is protected.

Myth #9: Home remedies can cure sunburn

There are many home remedies that people swear by for treating sunburn, such as vinegar or aloe vera, but there is little scientific evidence to support their effectiveness.

While these remedies may provide some relief from the pain and discomfort of sunburn, they cannot cure sunburn or reverse the damage done to your skin. The best treatment for sunburn is prevention, so be sure to protect your skin when you’re in the sun.

Myth #10: You can’t get sunburned through a window

Many people believe that they can’t get sunburned through a window, but this is not true. The sun’s UV rays can penetrate glass, so you can still get sunburned while sitting inside near a window.

If you spend a lot of time inside near a window, it’s important to wear sunscreen or protective clothing to keep your skin safe.

Conclusion

Sunburn is a common problem, and there are many myths surrounding how to treat and prevent it. It’s important to separate fact from fiction to keep yourself safe in the sun.

Remember to wear sunscreen every day, reapply it frequently, and protect your skin with clothing and shade whenever possible. By following these sun-safe habits, you can reduce your risk of skin damage and skin cancer.