We debunk common sunbathing myths and explain why it can lead to serious health consequences. While we all know that sunburns and excessive UV radiation can lead to skin cancer, premature aging, and eye damage, there are still many misconceptions about sun protection.

Read on to learn how to avoid pitfalls and protect yourself in the safest way possible.

Myth #1: “You need to use oil if you want to tan”

Tanning oil has been a trend for far too long, and the truth is: using it can be dangerous. While you may think that using an oil is helping accelerate the tanning process, it’s actually putting you on the fast-track to a sunburn (or worse). When your skin is slathered in oil, it refracts UV light from the sun at the surface of your skin, thereby amplifying the intensity of the sun’s (already intense) UV rays. Ditch the oil and better reach for a true tan accelerator instead that help stimulating melanin production in your skin to bring out your natural color when you’re exposed to the sun.

Myth #2: “A burn will fade into a tan”

There’s a common misconception that if you get a sunburn, you shouldn’t worry too much because it will simply fade into a tan. However, this is the most dangerous attitude out there. Research indicates that just five severe sunburns in your lifetime increase the risk of developing melanoma by 80%. While it might appear as though your redness is fading into a glowing bronze, it’s not a tan to be proud of because it was only achieved after seriously damaging and weakening your skin. Prepare your skin with a tan optimizer and never neglect SPF protection, even if you’re trying to get some color.

Myth #3: “Natural oils provide enough low SPF protection”

Many believe that putting on natural oils like coconut oil can provide low-level SPF protection, but this only provides a false sense of security. Natural oils such as coconut oil or raspberry seed oil might offer very minimal SPF ratings; however, this is completely counteracted by the refractive effect that oil has on UV light (see Myth #1). Without genuine UV filtering ingredients, coconut oils and such will do nothing to protect your skin. If you’re after hydration, follow every period of sun exposure with an antioxidant-rich, soothing after-sun.

Myth #4: “You can’t get a tan with sunscreen”

The reason why this myth is so widely believed is likely due to a misunderstanding of the term SPF and what it truly represents. SPF, or sun protection factor, is a measurement of how long we can stay out in the sun without getting burned, based on your skin type. For example, if you would normally burn in 10 minutes of sun exposure with no sunscreen, an application of SPF 15 would give you 15 times the amount of time before you would burn, or 150 minutes. Mineral non-toxic sunscreen is the way to go with protecting you and nature at the same time.

Myth #5: “A base tan protects you from sunburn”

Contrary to popular belief, a base tan does not protect you from sunburn. In fact, any change in skin color is a sign of skin damage. A base tan may provide a false sense of security, leading people to spend more time in the sun without proper protection. The best way to prevent sunburn is to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, seek shade during peak sun hours, and wear protective clothing.

Myth #6: “Indoor tanning is safer than outdoor tanning” 

It is not. In fact, it can be more dangerous because tanning beds emit concentrated UV radiation, which can increase the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, indoor tanning before the age of 35 increases the risk of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer, by 59%. It’s important to avoid indoor tanning and instead opt for safer alternatives such as self-tanning products.

Myth #7: “Sunscreen blocks vitamin D absorption”

While it’s true that sunscreen can block some vitamin D absorption, it’s not a significant amount. Most people can get enough vitamin D from a healthy diet and a few minutes of sun exposure each day. It’s important to use sunscreen to protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation, which can cause skin cancer, premature aging, and other skin damage.

Myth #8: “Dark-skinned people don’t need sunscreen”

Everyone, regardless of skin color, should use sunscreen to protect their skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation. While people with darker skin have more melanin, which provides some natural protection against the sun, they are still at risk of skin damage and skin cancer. It’s important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, seek shade during peak sun hours, and wear protective clothing.

Myth #9: “You can’t get sunburned on a cloudy day”

Clouds do not block all of the sun’s UV radiation, so it’s still possible to get sunburned on a cloudy day. In fact, up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can penetrate clouds. It’s important to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, seek shade during peak sun hours, and wear protective clothing, even on cloudy days.

In fact sun protection is crucial for maintaining healthy skin and avoiding the risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Don’t fall for common myths about sunbathing and tanning. Instead, use a mineral broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, seek shade during peak sun hours, and wear protective clothing.

Find a variety of safe and effective sun protection products in our shop.