Getting outside is so good for our health.  But it’s important to remember to use sunscreen and practice Sun Safety!  And there are so many urban myths around this.

 Let’s fact check them:

1. Can childhood sunburns 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.

2. Can a base tan is healthy or protects 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.

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, 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.

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.

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.

10. Am I using sunscreen correctly? 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 If its an old bottle from last year, check the expiration date on the bottle (they can go out of date).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!  Babies under 6 months of age should be kept out of the sun.

#sunsafe #sunprotection #SPF #sunscreen #sunblock @irishskin @irishcancersociety #melanoma