With summer right around the corner, I’m sure many of you are eager to jump in the pool or sunbathe at the beach. But before you do, let’s debunk some common myths so you can protect your skin!
Myth 1: A spray tan protects your skin from a sunburn
Spray tans or other sunless tanners are designed to give your skin that sun-kissed glow without exposure to the sun and its harmful UV rays. However, they do not protect your skin from getting a sunburn. The majority of these tans do not contain SPF and are not designed to be used as a sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. Self-tanners that do have SPF often have too low of levels to provide you with adequate protection. Don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against spray tans. Just remember, these tans should never replace your sunscreen and you should always apply sunscreen whenever you’re outside.
Myth 2: A foundation with a high SPF is enough to protect your skin from the sun
Now this may sound like the best of both worlds: you get to apply makeup while having the added benefit of sun protection. Unfortunately, most of the foundations with SPF contain far too little than the recommended amount to provide adequate protection. Even foundations with the highest SPF won’t do you any good. In order to achieve the same effectiveness as regular sunscreen, you would need to apply over five times the amount when relying on only makeup for sun protection. Now I don’t know about you, but I would never want that much foundation caked over my face…
Myth 3: Cloud coverage protects your skin from the sun
Most people believe that if there is no sunlight, there won’t be any UV radiation. However, quite the opposite is true. Over 80% of UV radiation, specifically UVA and UVB, can still penetrate through the clouds. This is especially concerning because these UV rays are responsible for sunburns, skin aging, and skin cancer. I recommend using SkinMD’s Tinted Antioxidant Mineral Sunblock. It is formulated for both broad spectrum UVA and UVB SPF 40 protection, with vitamins C & E to combat free radical damage as well. It also blocks out blue light, which is another culprit that contributes to premature aging
Frequently Asked Questions
Does a spray tan protect against sunburn?
No. Spray tans and other sunless tanners give the skin a sun-kissed glow without UV exposure, but the majority do not contain SPF and are not designed to be used as a sunscreen. Self-tanners that do have SPF often have levels too low to provide adequate protection.
Is a foundation with a high SPF enough on its own?
No. Most foundations with SPF contain far too little to provide adequate protection. To achieve the same effectiveness as regular sunscreen, you would need to apply over five times the amount of makeup.
Do clouds block UV?
Over 80% of UV radiation — both UVA and UVB — can still penetrate through the clouds. Those are the rays responsible for sunburns, skin aging and skin cancer.
Monika Kiripolsky, MD, FAAD, FAACS
Board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained laser and cosmetic surgeon in Beverly Hills and Newport Beach. Every article is written or reviewed by Dr. Kiripolsky.
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