I was at the playground with T. and C. this morning.  And it was a morning for slip-slap-slop!   We slid on a pair of sunglasses, slapped on a broad brimmed hat and slopped on that sunscreen.

10 Urban Myths – Busted! – to help you get ready for summer sun:

1. Can childhood sunburns really increase your risk of cancer?   Yes. Even one childhood sunburn doubles the risk of melanoma.  In a lifetime, even one sunburn every 2 years TRIPLES risk.  Most sun exposure damage is done before age of 18, though it may not cause problems until 10-15 years later. Skin cancer is real and it is among the most common cancers in Ireland. #factsmatter . #Melanoma often occurs in young and middle aged adults and the number of melanoma cases and deaths have been increasing over the last 20 years.

2. Can a base tan be healthy or protect against further sun damage? NO. Tanning from either sunbeds or the sun is a sign of damage from UV light and increases risk of skin cancer.

3. Can sunscreen prevent you from getting enough Vitamin D?   You only need 5-15 minutes of casual sun to hands/arms, face 2-3 times a week for adequate Vitamin D.  You can’t store it for the winter (it only stays for about 45 days on average).  More sun exposure can’t provide any additional health benefits. Excess Vitamin D beyond what your body needs doesn’t have any health benefits. Learn more from a trusted source:  https://www.cancer.ie/cancer-information-and-support/cancer-types/skin-cancer/vitamin-d-and-the-sun

4. Does sunscreen cause cancer?   This urban myth was based on a study that showed that a chemical cause oxybenzone, found in some sunscreens, may be absorbed. There has been no evidence of harm.  But if you are still concerned, you can choose a mineral-based sunblock such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.  Do not use a homemade sunscreen.  

5. Do I still have to reapply my sunscreen if it is SPF 50+ or waterproof? Reapply every 2 hours or sooner if you have been swimming or heavily sweating. SPF higher than 50 probably doesn’t give any additional protection. The sun’s damaging UV rays can bounce back from sand, water, or concrete; so be careful of these areas.  Most of the sun’s rays can still come through the clouds on an overcast day.

6. Is sunscreen the only way to prevent sun damage? No, but SLOPping on the sunscreen is an important part.  SLIP on clothing, SLAP on a wide brimmed hat, SEEK shade, SLIDE on sunglasses.  Specific Tips for Children:  The first, and best, line of defense against harmful ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure is covering up your child. Keep your child in the shade whenever possible, and limit sun exposure during the peak intensity hours – between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.Shirts or wet suits (for beach) with UV rating are great ways to cover up your child. Also find your child a wide-brimmed hat that can shade the cheeks, chin, ears and back of the neck. Worth the battle to teach your child to keep it on. Not always easy.  Specific Tips for Babies under 6 months of age: should be kept out of direct sunlight. Move your baby to the shade. Dress babies in lightweight clothing that covers the arms and legs, and use brimmed hats. The safety of sunscreen has not been tested in infants younger than six months, so sunscreens are not usually recommended for this age group. However, if sun exposure absolutely cannot be avoided, you may apply a minimal amount of sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to small areas in young infants (eg, face, back of hands) when adequate clothing and shade are not available. Sensitive skin or “baby” formulas are recommended

7. How do I put sunscreen around my eyes? You don’t.  Wear sunglasses and/or wide brimmed had.  This will not only protect the skin around your eyes, but help prevent cataracts from sun damage!

8. Do I need sunscreen if I have darker skin? YES! While certain skin types have higher or lower risks of melanoma, everyone is at risk of skin cancer.

9. I need to tan! “Fake it, don’t Bake it.”   Better yet, #OwnYourTone.  Positive body image isn’t just about body size, it’s also about our entire image.  That includes your skin tone.  Image conscious?  Than even a better reason to protect against premature aging and sun/UV damage!

10. What’s the best was to use sunscreen? Choose an minimum SPF 30, ideally a sentitive or product for children. If its an old bottle from last year, check the expiration date on the bottle (they can go out of date). You can consider a mineral sunblock. Apply 20 minutes before sun exposure. Use enough – at least 35 ml for an adult (that’s a shot glass full!)  Babies under 6 months of age should be kept out of the sun.   What about that bottle of sunscreen in the back of the cabinet from last season? Check the bottle for the expiration date. Chemical sunscreens may become less effective over time, and leaving them in high temperatures such as in the car or on the beach may speed this up. Throw away sunscreen when it has passed the expiration date on the bottle. What if you can’t see an expiration date? Throw it away after three years. If you can’t remember? Probably best to get a new bottle.

Bottom line: There is no good reason to skip the sunscreen – from cancer to Vitamin D.