Sun Myths and Truths: The Good, The Bad and The Dangerous

By Julie and Lauren

Let's face it- baking in the sun for hours is so not chic, but protecting your skin is. As difficult as it is for the two of us to sacrifice our summer glow and don our sunnies and wide brim hats, we know it will be well worth it to be healthy and a fresh-looking 40. 

Sunning sans umbrella is a thing of the past...

With the sun and summer peaking through the clouds- skin protection and sun safety is important. In support of National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, B&B has teamed up with Avvo.com and renowned dermatologist, Tina Alster, MD to remind us of the importance of skin care.  

With the sun and summer peaking through the clouds- skin protection and sun safety is important. Some of this we may already know, but Avvo has teamed up with renowned dermatologist, Tina Alster, MD to remind us of the importance of skin care.

*Summer Skin Myths & Truths*

· MYTH: Tanning booths provide safe sun

o TRUTH: Most tanning booths claim to be safe because they emit UVA rays (not UVB rays) that don’t burn your skin. However, these same rays, while non-burning, are responsible for deeper dermal damage over time which contributes to wrinkles and skin cancer.

· MYTH: Concerns over Vitamin D deficiency means I should not use sunscreen.

o TRUTH: While many people are Vitamin D deficient, exposing one’s skin to the summer sun unprotected is not the answer. Only ten minutes of mid-day sun is actually needed to produce ample amount of Vitamin D for the day. For those who still want or need more, Vitamin D supplements as well as a diet with Vitamin D-fortified foods (milk, yogurt, cereals, fatty fish) are recommended.

· MYTH: Makeup and face moisturizers that contain SPF are enough protection when heading outside.

o TRUTH: These combination products are good if going to the office (with limited sun exposure), but if outdoor activity is planned, these products will only suffice if ample amount is applied (e.g., at least a marble’s size for the face and a golf ball amount for the body). Also, frequent application is needed (at least every two hours if outside). Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen to render themselves protected to the numerical amount printed on the bottle.

· MYTH: I don’t need to see a doctor if I watch for unusual spots.

o TRUTH: Everyone should have their skin checked by a doctor once a year. And not just any doctor, but a dermatologist who specializes in skin cancer prevention and treatment. It’s critical that people do their homework to find someone who can provide the best care.  

· MYTH: Waterproof sunscreen keeps your skin protected after going in the water.

o TRUTH: Just not true. It will protect you while in the water, but it is best to re-apply after you come out because some will rub off in the water or when toweling dry.

· MYTH: The chemicals in sunscreen are bad for me.

o TRUTH: Chemicals are only bad if you have sensitive skin. But now there are several non-chemical-containing sunscreens that do not irritate the skin and also have a wide range of sun protection (against UVA and UVB rays). Those with sensitive skin should look for products that contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

· MYTH: I’m not at risk if I always tan and never burn.

o TRUTH: Because the three most common types of skin cancers (basal cell, squamous cell, melanoma) are related to cumulative sun exposure, protection of the skin from the sun is imperative (regardless of skin type). In fact, skin cancers have been reported in patients with naturally dark skin as well as pale skin, so just because someone tans (rather than burns) doesn’t mean that skin cancer is not possible

Avvo.com is the world's largest online ratings directory dedicated to bringing their readers the best news and reviews on doctors and up-to-date medical information, has announced they will donate $5 to the Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) for every doctor reviewed on the site this month! Pretty exciting- be sure to check it out!