Sunscreen Myths & Facts

11 Sunscreen Myths, Debunked

Daily sun protection is essential, regardless of your age, skin tone, or lifestyle. To help you get the most out of your sunscreen products, we’ve compiled a list of 11 myths about sunscreen so you can be more informed about sun protection.

Myth #1: You don’t need sunscreen in the winter or when it’s cloudy outside

It’s a common misconception that you can skip sunscreen if it’s overcast or during the colder months. But UV rays are present year-round, even during winter, and clouds have little effect on blocking UV rays. In fact, light or thin clouds may even enhance UV levels because of scattering.¹ It’s essential that you wear sunscreen all year, during summer and winter months.

Myth #2: Sunscreen is bad for you

Research studies have demonstrated that wearing sunscreen minimises the short-term and long-term effects of skin from the sun’s rays. Primary Sunscreen products (and some secondary sunscreens) are regulated by the Therapeutic Goods Administration to ensure they meet safety and effectiveness standards.

Myth #3: A higher SPF value means you don’t need to reapply as often

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It corresponds to the amount of UV radiation needed to produce a sunburn on protected skin compared with unprotected skin. The higher the SPF number, the higher protection from sunburn. Sunscreen products with an SPF 50 can block up to 98% of UVB radiation—the type of UV rays that cause sunburn.³ But that doesn’t mean you don’t need to reapply as often. Regardless of the SPF, you should reapply sunscreen every two hours when outdoors, after swimming and after activities involving excessive sweating.

Myth #4: You don’t need to reapply sunscreen if it’s waterproof

No sunscreen product can be considered completely “waterproof” (or “sweatproof”). Rather, they can be “water-resistant.” Formulas labeled “water-resistant” help keep your sunscreen's active ingredients from washing off your skin while you’re in the water. Keep in mind, however, that water-resistant sunscreens still need to be reapplied at least every two hours during the day, as well as after sweating or swimming.

Myth #5: Darker skin tones don’t need sun protection

All skin tones can experience sun damage, which can lead to skin cancer and visible signs of skin ageing. Darker skin might not burn as quickly as lighter skin, but this doesn’t mean your skin isn’t affected.

Myth #6: You can skip sunscreen if you stay in the shade

Seeking shade can help protect from harmful UV rays, but it’s not recommended as the only method of sun protection. In addition to protective measures, such as avoiding sun exposure during peak hours and wearing protective clothing (like hats, long-sleeved shirts, and sunglasses), it’s important to apply (and reapply) sunscreen daily.

Myth #7: You can use makeup with SPF instead of sunscreen

Some makeup products contain SPF, but these alone aren't enough to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. So, although makeup products with SPF may offer some protection, they shouldn’t replace your daily face sunscreen or moisturiser with SPF.

Myth #8: You don’t need sunscreen when you’re driving or staying indoors

The sun’s rays aren’t only a concern when you’re outside. Shade or windows won’t provide adequate protection from UV rays, since UVA rays can penetrate through glass. You should use sunscreen even if you don’t plan on going outside. Applying sunscreen each morning can also help protect your skin when you need to head outdoors for unexpected, last-minute errands.

Myth #9: All products with sunscreen leave a white cast

“White cast” is a term used to describe the white-colored residue that some sunscreen products can leave behind on your skin. Some people might be deterred by the white cast look, but there are many newer sunscreens formulated to blend into the skin easily, you just need to find them!

Myth #10: I won’t get enough vitamin D if I use sunscreen

People that wear sunscreen daily can still maintain adequate levels of vitamin D from food or supplements, rather than just from the sun. If you have questions about your nutritional health, schedule a visit with your doctor for personalised guidance.

Myth #11: Sunscreen products never expire

Sunscreen does expire.⁵ The Therapeutic Goods Administration requires that sunscreen products must have an expiration date. Dermatologists generally recommend throwing away any sunscreen products that are past their expiration date. Avoid keeping your sunscreen in direct sunlight or in extreme temperatures, as this may cause your products to expire faster or become less effective.