Sunscreen, five myths that endanger your health

In our country, where the sun is very generous almost all year round, using sunscreen should be as self-evident as wearing a seat belt in the car.

And yet, many avoid or neglect its use, influenced by inaccurate information and myths about the composition of products that have been passed down from mouth to mouth.

The result? Hundreds of cases of skin cancer every year and skin that ages faster than it deserves. If you believe that you don't burn, that it's too late to take care of yourself or that sunscreen is harmful to you, then you need to read the 5 myths below and what's really true. In their article in The Conversation, Katie Lee and Monika Janda from the University of Queensland clearly explain what is and what is not true when it comes to sunscreen.

Myth 1: Sunscreen prevents you from getting vitamin D

It sounds logical: since your skin needs sun to produce vitamin D, then sunscreen blocks it. However, that's not exactly the case. According to research, you only need a third of the sun's radiation that causes sunburn to meet your vitamin D needs. Studies show that those who use sunscreen every day have no significant changes in their levels compared to those who don't.

Myth 2: Its ingredients are toxic

There are some concerns about chemicals in cosmetics, but sunscreens are strictly regulated. Some substances, when used in very large amounts, can affect the hormonal system, but the amounts absorbed by the body from regular use of sunscreen are far below dangerous levels. If you prefer something more natural, choose sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are considered safe and effective.

Myth 3: I have a genetic predisposition, there's no point in being careful

A predisposition to skin cancer increases the risk, but does not absolutely determine it. Ultraviolet radiation places an additional burden on the body, and using sunscreen can reduce this additional risk. In short, you can't change your genes, but you can change your habits.

Myth 4: I'm old, it doesn't make sense anymore

The damage may begin in childhood, but the skin continues to be affected as the years go by. Regular use of sunscreen reduces the formation of new actinic hyperkeratosis (precancerous lesions) and protects against the thinning of the skin, bruising, and poor healing that come with aging skin. So it's never too late to start.

Myth 5: I'm allergic to sunscreen

Only 3% of the population has a true allergy to a sunscreen ingredient. Much more often, you simply get a sunburn because you haven't re-applied your product or it's expired. Another possibility is polymorphic light eruption, a normal skin reaction to the first rays of spring. If you continue to have problems, a dermatologist can help you find the right formula for your skin.