By: Dr. Luis Sevinsky, Dermatólogo
S un exposure is a recurring topic in dermatology. While sunlight provides benefits such as vitamin D synthesis, its ultraviolet radiation (UVR) can cause significant skin damage if proper precautions are not taken.
In this article, we will debunk some myths and address common mistakes related to sun care.
Myths and Truths
Myth 1: "A tan is healthy"
strong>Reality: A tan is a clear sign of skin damage. The stimulation of melanocytes to produce melanin is a protective response to damage caused by UV radiation. However, the skin has a memory, and sun damage is cumulative, increasing the risk of premature aging and skin cancer.
Myth 2: "Tanning beds are safer than the sun"
Reality: Tanning beds primarily emit UVA radiation, with a small amount of UVB. This type of radiation penetrates deeply into the skin, causing photoaging and increasing the risk of skin cancer.
Myth 3: "The sun doesn’t cause skin spots"
Reality: Chronic sun exposure is one of the main causes of skin spots. In young women, it can trigger melasma (hyperpigmentation on the cheeks and around the lips). In older individuals, actinic spots, also known as "age spots," can develop into precancerous lesions.
Myth 4: "Sunscreen prevents tanning"
Reality: Sunscreens with an SPF of over 30 filter approximately 80% of UVB rays, allowing for slight tanning while preventing sunburn.
Myth 5: "Self-tanners protect against the sun"
Reality: Self-tanners only provide temporary superficial pigmentation and do not offer protection against UV radiation. Therefore, they should be complemented with good sunscreen.
Common Mistakes in Sun Protection
- Judging UV intensity by temperature It’s a mistake to think that cooler days have less UV radiation. The intensity of solar radiation remains constant, regardless of temperature.
- Wearing inadequate clothing Although short sleeves and shorts are comfortable, they don’t offer sufficient protection. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants, preferably made of UV-protective fabrics, are recommended.
- Applying too little sunscreen Many people apply less sunscreen than necessary or fail to reapply it every two hours, drastically reducing its effectiveness.
- Relying solely on sunscreen Sunscreens don’t provide complete protection against UV radiation. For greater safety, they should be combined with wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and appropriate clothing.
- Believing sunscreen lasts all day Sunscreens need to be reapplied every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating, to maintain their effectiveness.
- Using caps instead of wide-brimmed hats Caps only protect the front of the face, leaving the neck and ears exposed. A wide-brimmed hat provides uniform shade around the head.
- Neglecting protection on cloudy days Clouds only partially block UV radiation, allowing much of it to reach the skin.
- Relying solely on shade UV radiation can reflect off surfaces like water, sand, or pavement, affecting the skin even under shade.
Protect Your Skin Year-Round
Skin care against the sun is not optional. Using sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, complemented by physical measures such as proper clothing and hats, is essential to prevent premature aging and serious conditions like skin cancer.
At Dr. Sevinsky’s clinic, we offer personalized advice to design a sun care routine tailored to your needs.
Schedule your consultation today to ensure your skin’s health! You can book your appointment directly [here] or contact us via WhatsApp at +549115403-9181.