Summer time is near and that means the African sun will be out in full force. You want to grab a sun screen lotion for the beach but you are not sure what the SPF numbers mean?
SPF (sun protection factor) is a relative measure of how long a sunscreen will protect you from ultraviolet (UV) B rays. There are alot of myths and facts about the SPF ratings but sussing out the false information can be tricky.
“There are certain SPFs that you need to apply only once a day.”
Myth. It is advised that people must apply sunscreen every two to three hours, no matter what brand or type they are using.
“You can get burnt through a window.”
Fact. Although you can’t get burnt badly, there some level of UVA rays and should still wear sunscreen if you’ll be in the car on a sunny day. Car windows only filter (out) UVB rays
“If there’s hair on your head, you don’t need to protect your scalp.”
Myth. “The scalp is the most common place for skin cancer in men. When men have a receding hairline, they don’t think about applying sunscreen to their head, but they need to
“If you’re not burnt, your skin is okay.”
Myth. If your skin changes colour at all, you’re experiencing sun damage. Sure, a burn is worse for your skin, but both doctors agree that chronic sun damage (through a tan), can also have lasting results.
Read more myths and facts on: today.com
WATCH: Why do we have too wear sunscreen
