July 24, 2025
UV Safety Month: Don’t Get Burned by Sun Safety Myths
A recent American Academy of Dermatology survey revealed that one-third of adults in the United States lack basic knowledge of skin cancer, tanning, and sun protection. As we reach the height of summer, it’s a good time to protect ourselves from some glaring myths about sun safety. Read on to learn more about how to keep your skin safe, healthy, and ready to outshine the sun!
Myth 1: Tanning is harmless as long as you don’t burn.
Any change in the color of your skin after exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays is actually a sign of injury. But what if the UV rays come from a tanning bed or sun lamp? The reality is the same: UV light from any source can cause lasting damage to your skin.
- There is no safe way to tan. Every time you tan, you speed up the aging of your skin and increase your risk for all types of skin cancer.
Myth 2: Having a “base tan” lowers the risk of getting skin cancer.
While a base tan is equivalent to wearing sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of about 3, any tanning by the sun damages the skin and can increase the risk of skin cancer.
- If you feel you need your skin to be darker during the summer or for a special event, consider using a self-tanning product.
Myth 3: People with darker skin do not need sunscreen.
Darker skin naturally has more melanin, which does provide some protection but not enough to make you invincible to harmful UV rays. No matter your complexion, liberally applying sunscreen should be a part of your daily sun-safety routine.
- Visible light from the sun can increase skin darkening, also known as hyperpigmentation, particularly for people with darker skin tones.
Myth 4: SPF 30 on sunscreen means it protects you for 30 minutes.
That’s not what the SPF number means! The SPF number tells you how long the sun’s UVB rays will take to redden your skin if you apply the sunscreen exactly as directed compared to the amount of time without sunscreen applied. So, if you use an SPF sunscreen correctly, it will take you 30 times (not minutes) longer to burn than if you used no sunscreen.
- You should apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen, which protects against both UVA and UVB rays, every day on skin not covered by clothing if you will be outside.
Myth 5: People with sensitive skin cannot use sunscreen.
Skin irritation or allergic reactions can occur, but they are rare. Mineral sunscreens (also known as physical sunscreens or blockers), with zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide, are less likely to cause irritation than chemical ones.
- Dermatologists recommend physical sunscreens for people with sensitive skin.
Myth 6: Sunscreens with high SPF need to be applied less frequently.
False! Sunscreen of any SPF level needs to be reapplied every 2 hours when you’re outdoors—and even more often when you’re swimming or sweating.
- Dermatologists recommend using a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Be Sun Smart
Spending time outdoors—and in the sun—is vital to good health and well-being. By raising your awareness of UV safety and taking regular precautions, you can reduce the risks of sun-related injuries damage.
If you have concerns about your skin, or if you simply want a skin checkup, call Fort HealthCare Dermatology to schedule an appointment or stop by the Dermatology Walk-In Clinic each Wednesday from 12:30pm to 2:00pm.
For additional information about sun safety, including sun protection for babies, preventing and treating sunburn in children, and choosing and using sunscreen, visit these helpful resources:
American Academy of Dermatology: Shade, Clothing, and Sunscreen