Don’t Get Burned by Sun Protection Myths
Key Takeaways:
• Skin cancer experts warn sunscreen misinformation may increase cancer risk, especially among younger generations
• Moffitt Cancer Center says tans and repeated sun exposure are signs of harmful skin damage
• Experts say sunscreen does not cause vitamin D deficiency and UV rays penetrate cloudy skies
Skin cancer remains the most common type of cancer in the U.S. and around most of the world. During National Don’t Fry Day and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, experts at Moffitt Cancer Center are encouraging you to protect yourself from the sun and be cautious of common myths.
“We love being in Florida, but the sun isn’t always our friend,” Vernon Sondak, MD, chair of Moffitt’s Cutaneous Oncology Department, said.
New data shows misinformation is leading some to cut back on or stop using sunscreen altogether, according to the American Academy of Dermatology Association. More than 16 million Americans may face an increased risk of skin cancer with survey data showing social media and misinformation may contribute to risky behaviors, especially among Gen Z.
Here are some common sun safety myths.
Myth No. 1: Solar Callus
Myth: People can build a tolerance to the sun through frequent exposure.
Fact: Unprotected sun exposure damages the skin and increases the risk of skin cancer. There is no appreciable “tolerance” that develops. A tan or sunburn are visible signs of damage to the skin. The damage from exposure to harmful ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun or a tanning bed can increase cancer risk.
Myth No. 2: Vitamin D
Myth: Wearing sunscreen can lead to vitamin D deficiency.
Fact: Regular use of sunscreen does not lead to vitamin D deficiency. Even a brief walk outside can be sufficient for maximal skin vitamin D production since the skin is generally limited in how much vitamin D it can produce. Supplementation or taking appropriate foods can help maintain healthy vitamin D levels without increasing the risk of skin cancer.
Myth No. 3: The Base Tan
Myth: A safe tan can help protect against sunburn and more exposure can prevent burns.
Fact: There is no such thing as a safe tan. Every tan is a sign of skin damage caused by UV exposure. While there is truth that having a tan complexion or more melanin in your skin can have protective factors, no one is immune to skin cancer. Repeated tanning, including the use of tanning beds, increases the risk of cell mutations that can lead to skin cancer.
Myth No. 4: Cloudy Days
Myth: Skipping on sunscreen is OK when the sun isn’t shining.
Fact: Even on cloudy days, UV rays from the sun can still damage the skin even when the sun isn’t visible. The quick trips outside can also add up over time.
To get the best value out of sunscreen, it must be applied evenly and sufficiently. Replace applications every two hours, especially after sweating or swimming.
It’s also important to protect commonly overlooked areas like the ears, lips, hands, top of the hands and feet, behind the knees, behind the knees, neck, chest, skin around the eyes (even when wearing sunglasses), and uncovered areas of the scalp (hairline, bald areas, parted section of hair).
