Summer is here, which means a lot of people will book vacations where they’ll lie on the beach trying to get that sun-kissed tan like from the magazine or social media. There are many risks to being exposed to the sunlight for long, therefore it’s necessary to be careful so you won’t get harmed by UV rays. Here are some most common tanning myths that we’ll try to debunk and present the alternatives that can also get you gorgeous tan:
Myth 1: Tanning is good for vitamin D deficiency
Even though sun exposure is the biggest source of vitamin D, you can also find it in various foods such as cheese, egg yolk, fish such as salmon and tuna and beef liver. If you feel like you might suffer from vitamin D deficiency, talk to your doctor first, because you might need to enrich your daily routine with some supplements and a different diet. Tanning beds and direct exposure to sunlight can only increase the risk of skin cancer, so if you find yourself on the beach this summer, make sure to protect yourself with sunscreen and if you feel like you need more vitamin D, consult your physician before doing anything.
Myth 2: Not all UV rays are dangerous
There are two types of UV rays: UVAs and UVBs. There’s a common belief that only UVB rays are dangerous since they’re the main culprit for sunburns and skin cancer, but that doesn’t mean that UVAs are less harmful. Actually, UVA rays are responsible for wrinkles and premature ageing, due to sun exposure, so there’s no reason to believe that ones are better than others. Both are dangerous for different reasons, so every time you go out, make sure you’re well-protected with sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
Myth 3: People who have darker skin shouldn’t be worried about sunburns
People with fair skin are well-informed and know that, in order to avoid sunburns, they should stay away from direct sun exposure. But a lot of people with darker skin tend to believe that they’re safe, which isn’t that true. Of course, the extra melanin in their skin will offer some level of protection, but that doesn’t mean they’re safe from skin cancer and severe sunburns. Melanin can protect to a certain degree, but it won’t protect a person from UV radiation. Therefore, darker-skinned people are also at risk of getting skin cancer and premature ageing. Using sunscreen will protect you from getting your skin damaged even if you’re naturally darker-skinned.
Myth 4: As long as you don’t burn, tanning is safe
This is a common misconception that needs to be debunked, for once and for all. Even though tanning may seem harmless, it can still lead to premature ageing, so it’s important to remain cautious. Aside from the usual skin problems, tanning can also cause other issues, such as sunspots that can make skin look uneven and tired. Sometimes, that can happen even if you try your best to stay safe, but luckily, there are always treatment options. Some sun spots remedies include lotions and brighteners, so if you’re struggling to choose the right one, always check the ingredients at the back, and make sure they’re mostly natural and plant-derived.
Myth 5: Sunscreens can be toxic
Even the most common sunscreen ingredients have been around for ages, without many consequences which so it’s pretty certain that they’re safe. Of course, that doesn’t mean one can’t have an allergic reaction to some ingredients, but chances are, if you use it correctly, you’ll be perfectly fine. If you’re still concerned, you can opt for organic sunscreens that have more natural ingredients, or pick those that contain metals such as titanium dioxide, which is also found in many baby products. This type of sunscreens doesn’t get into your skin, instead, they sit on top and reflect the sun rays.
Myth 6: Tanning beds are safer than natural sun exposure
This myth has been circulating for quite some time, and some even say that tanning beds are safe as long as they’re new. Well, that’s wrong, as there’s been a review of the number of studies of tanning bed usage, which has found that, when it comes to melanoma risk, there’s no difference whether the tanning bed’s new or old. They’re much more dangerous than they seem, that in some countries, they’re being banned. For those who want a quick tanning session, using tan spray is a much safer option.
Everyone wants a darker tan and a sun kissed skin glow, but it’s necessary to stay safe in order to avoid skin diseases and getting sunburnt. Prevent is always the best cure, so wearing a sunscreen with a high SPF will do. If you’re going on a holiday, make sure to bring a few different types of sunscreen and always keep your skin moisturized, even after you’re finished with tanning. Avoid tanning beds and salons as much as possible, since they’ll only give you a quick tan, but they pose a long-term health risk.
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