Latest news with #sunscreen
Yahoo
12 hours ago
- Health
- Yahoo
School sun safety lessons trialled to tackle skin cancer
Children as young as five are being taught how to check UV levels and apply sunscreen, as part of a new pilot aimed at reducing future skin cancer cases. The initiative, currently being trialled in primary schools across Kent, is planned to be introduced into Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) lessons nationwide from 2026. Melanoma, the most serious form of skin cancer, is linked to UV exposure - and experts say sunburn in childhood significantly increases the risk later in life. In 2021, around 18,300 people were diagnosed with melanoma in the UK, according to Cancer Research. That figure is projected to rise to 21,300 by 2026, the charity says. Michelle Baker, from the charity Melanoma Fund, which is behind the education project, said changing children's habits early is key. "People think melanoma is an older person's disease," she says, "but it's often seeded in childhood." She says the project aims to "grow skin cancer out of the next generation". Giving children a sense of control and responsibility for their sun protection is central to this. "We're saying this is your superpower," she adds. At Platt Primary school in Maidstone, pupils are learning to read UV indexes, apply sunscreen properly, and understand when they need protection. Headteacher Emma Smith said the pupils have been "really receptive". "If we educate them early, they're more likely to keep that knowledge as they get older - especially when social media starts to influence their choices." The childhood sun safety drive comes as Cancer Research UK says the rise in melanoma cases among adults is a particular cause for concern. A recent study from the charity found that cancer deaths cost the UK economy £10.3bn a year, more than any other health condition – underlining the importance of preventative measures. Consultant dermatologist Dr Katie Lacy says that educating children about how to look after their skin is key to reducing melanoma rates. Research shows that nine out of 10 cases are caused by UV exposure from the sun and sunbeds. Getting sunburnt regularly increases the chances of skin cancer. Dr Lacy stresses there is no such thing as a "safe tan", explaining that tanning is a response to skin damage. "Most melanomas don't come from existing moles - so if you notice something new, get it checked," she adds. She also highlights the growing role of AI in screening suspicious moles within the NHS - which could help streamline referrals to specialist services. The ABCDE checklist can help identify if a mole is abnormal: A - asymmetrical (does the mole have an uneven shape?) B - border (are the edges blurry or jagged?) C - colour (is it an uneven colour with different shades and tones?) D - diameter (is the mole bigger than your other ones?) E - evolving (is it changing, such as starting to itch, bleed or become crusty?) Source: Cancer Research UK For Kara Leece, diagnosed with melanoma at 29, the message is personal. "If I'd had that education at primary school, I think I could've prevented it," she told BBC News. "Now I have a scar that reminds me of what I've been through. When children ask about it, I tell them my story - because I don't want this to happen to anyone else." Try to keep children in the shade between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its strongest Kit them out with wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and clothing to cover their skin. Sunscreen is also very important - apply it regularly and generously, and make sure it's at least SPF 30 and four or five stars Source: Cancer Research UK Melanoma skin cancer cases rising in UK Suncream should be everywhere - cancer sufferer Comic Ryan diagnosed with skin cancer for second time
BBC News
12 hours ago
- Health
- BBC News
Skin cancer: Primary school sun safety lessons trialled
Children as young as five are being taught how to check UV levels and apply sunscreen, as part of a new pilot aimed at reducing future skin cancer initiative, currently being trialled in primary schools across Kent, is planned to be introduced into Personal, Social, Health and Economic (PSHE) lessons nationwide from the most serious form of skin cancer, is linked to UV exposure - and experts say sunburn in childhood significantly increases the risk later in 2021, around 18,300 people were diagnosed with melanoma in the UK, according to Cancer Research. That figure is projected to rise to 21,300 by 2026, the charity says. Michelle Baker, from the charity Melanoma Fund, which is behind the education project, said changing children's habits early is key. "People think melanoma is an older person's disease," she says, "but it's often seeded in childhood."She says the project aims to "grow skin cancer out of the next generation". Giving children a sense of control and responsibility for their sun protection is central to this. "We're saying this is your superpower," she Platt Primary school in Maidstone, pupils are learning to read UV indexes, apply sunscreen properly, and understand when they need Emma Smith said the pupils have been "really receptive"."If we educate them early, they're more likely to keep that knowledge as they get older - especially when social media starts to influence their choices." No 'safe tan' The childhood sun safety drive comes as Cancer Research UK says the rise in melanoma cases among adults is a particular cause for concern.A recent study from the charity found that cancer deaths cost the UK economy £10.3bn a year, more than any other health condition – underlining the importance of preventative dermatologist Dr Katie Lacy says that educating children about how to look after their skin is key to reducing melanoma shows that nine out of 10 cases are caused by UV exposure from the sun and sunburnt regularly increases the chances of skin cancer. Dr Lacy stresses there is no such thing as a "safe tan", explaining that tanning is a response to skin damage. "Most melanomas don't come from existing moles - so if you notice something new, get it checked," she also highlights the growing role of AI in screening suspicious moles within the NHS - which could help streamline referrals to specialist ABCDE checklist can help identify if a mole is abnormal:A - asymmetrical (does the mole have an uneven shape?)B - border (are the edges blurry or jagged?)C - colour (is it an uneven colour with different shades and tones?)D - diameter (is the mole bigger than your other ones?)E - evolving (is it changing, such as starting to itch, bleed or become crusty?)Source: Cancer Research UKFor Kara Leece, diagnosed with melanoma at 29, the message is personal."If I'd had that education at primary school, I think I could've prevented it," she told BBC News."Now I have a scar that reminds me of what I've been through. When children ask about it, I tell them my story - because I don't want this to happen to anyone else." Tips for keeping kids sun safe Try to keep children in the shade between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its strongestKit them out with wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and clothing to cover their skin. Sunscreen is also very important - apply it regularly and generously, and make sure it's at least SPF 30 and four or five starsSource: Cancer Research UK
CNET
a day ago
- Health
- CNET
Should You Use a Sunscreen With a Higher SPF? We Asked a Dermatologist
Before you leave your house, you probably check to make sure you have three items on hand: your keys, wallet and phone. But there is one product you may be forgetting that is essential for your health -- sunscreen. Especially during the summer months, sunscreen is crucial to protect your skin from the sun's UV rays, which can lead to skin cancer and premature aging. But with so many different SPF numbers out there, it can be difficult to know which one to choose. We asked a dermatologist, so you don't have to. What is SPF? SPF, or sun protection factor, describes the amount of solar energy needed to produce a sunburn on protected skin relative to unprotected skin, according to the US Food and Drug Administration. Logic would follow, then, that wearing a higher SPF would offer you better protection when you're out and about, basking in the sun's rays. Is a higher SPF better? Is higher SPF sunscreen more protective in a measurable way that actually matters? The tested difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50 is small, according to Dr. Steven Daveluy, board-certified dermatologist and program director at Wayne State University Department of Dermatology. There was a difference of 96.7% blocking vs. 98% blocking, in one example he provided. Research on people wearing sunscreen out in "real life" has suggested higher SPFs are more protective, Daveluy said in an email. Combine this with the fact you're probably not wearing enough sunscreen -- studies have shown people apply only 25% to 50% of the amount that they should, Daveluy said -- and a higher SPF may come out reasonably more protective. "You should use about 1 ounce of sunscreen to cover your head, neck, arms and legs when wearing shorts and a T-shirt," Daveluy recommended, adding that people without hair should use a little more. "That means your 3-ounce tube of sunscreen is only three applications," Daveluy said. "Most people are not using that amount." What is the minimum SPF you need in a sunscreen? The American Academy of Dermatology Association recommends your sunscreen be SPF 30 or higher. It also recommends you look for sunscreen that has broad-spectrum protection (it protects against UVA and UVB rays) and make sure it's water-resistant. "If you follow the recommendations for the proper amount of sunscreen, then SPF 30 is great," Daveluy said. If you think you're skimping on the layers, though, a higher SPF could offer more benefit. He added that he generally recommends looking for at least SPF 50 or 60. Does skin tone matter when choosing an SPF? People with darker skin tones have more melanin, which does offer some protection from the sun's damaging rays. For this reason, skin cancer rates in people of color are lower than rates in white people, but the risk isn't zero. Research also suggests that people of color may be more likely to experience a missed or late diagnosis of skin cancer, making outcomes more dangerous. (It's also important to note that melanoma can have other causes besides exposure to sunlight or UV rays, and can show up in areas not typically exposed to sun.) "SPF 30 is the minimum for everyone," Daveluy said. He added that tinted sunscreens may be a better fit for darker skin tones, leaving less of a white cast. "If you have very fair skin, the higher [SPF] numbers may be a good idea, especially if you aren't using the proper amount, because you will see the consequences of underuse more easily," Daveluy said. Sunscreen red flags As long as you're wearing a minimum of SPF 30, applying it properly and also looking for products that are broad spectrum and water resistant, you've got the basics down. Daveluy added that for people with sensitive skin, finding a mineral sunscreen with "active ingredients of zinc and/or titanium" may be a good choice. Daveluy pointed out other measures of protecting yourself from the sun, including wearing a wide-brimmed hat, sun-protective clothing and hanging out in the shade when possible. But don't forget that sunscreen has a proven safety record going back for decades, he said. "The biggest red flags for sunscreen are any people or reports that try to tell you sunscreen isn't safe," Daveluy said.
New York Times
2 days ago
- Health
- New York Times
4th of July Sales Are Already Happening. Here Are the Best Deals Available.
Michael Murtaugh/NYT Wirecutter To keep your skin looking dewy and protected, this formula spreads easily without leaving behind a white cast, even on darker skin tones. It goes on like a makeup primer and won't look oily or sticky if reapplied over makeup throughout the day. Other things to know: Water-resistant up to 40 minutes. Greasy texture (like a watery petroleum jelly) may be off-putting to some. Pricey. This deal doesn't beat the rare single-day 50%-off sale, but it's still a great value. Price reflects in cart with free Bluemercury account. Read more: The Best Sunscreens for Your Face Supergoop Every. Single. Face. Watery Lotion This broad-spectrum SPF 50 sunscreen soaks into dry skin to hydrate while it protects. It can also serve as a good primer for dewy makeup looks without being oily or greasy. At just 1.7 ounces, it's not cheap, but one bottle is surprisingly long-lasting. Other things to know: Very watery. If you prefer a more matte look or have oily skin, this is probably not the sunscreen for you. Sweat-resistant up to 40 minutes. Price reflects in cart; a free Bluemercury account is required for free shipping. Read more: The Best Sunscreens for Your Face Supergoop Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50 (18 ounces) Other things to know: Rated SPF 50. None of Wirecutter's testers experienced a white cast, but some reported that it left them feeling greasy. The 18-ounce jug is the most affordable size on a per-ounce basis. Price reflects in cart; a free Bluemercury account is required for free shipping. Read more: Supergoop Sunscreen Is Worth the Splurge EltaMD Skin Recovery Amino Acid Foaming Cleanser This cloud-like cleanser feels light, luxurious, and mild on your hands and face. Its sulfate-free soft foam formula fully removes dirt and grime and leaves your face feeling deeply clean but not at all stripped. One pump produces a dollop that's just the right amount for face-washing. $35 $28 from EltaMD Other things to know: Pretty pricey. 5-ounce bottle. Contains 28 ingredients, making it harder to determine if one of them triggers a sensitivity or irritation. Mostly fragrance-free, with slight hints of coconut and medicine. At the EltaMD site, use promo code SKIN20 to get the deal price. Read more: The Best Facial Cleansers Imagine a piece of carry-on luggage with the durability and insulation of a rolling hard cooler. Unlike our top rolling-cooler pick, the Yeti Tundra, the Roadie has a telescoping handle that changes its center of gravity, which may make it easier to maneuver in some situations. Other things to know: It's in our cooler guide's Competition section, but we like it at a deep discount. Typically pricier than the Tundra, and the difference in maneuverability wasn't immediately clear during tests. Holds 76 cans versus the Tundra's 82. Price reflects in cart. Read more: The Best Coolers Yeti Camino 35 Carryall Tote Other things to know: A touch larger than our top pick, but a similar capacity. Its interior pockets are zippered, and zippers don't play well with sand. The smaller-size Camino 20 is also on sale. At REI, membership is required; single-use discount on full-price Yeti item reflects in cart. Read more: The Best Beach Bag REI Co-op Wonderland 6 Tent A redesign of REI's beloved Kingdom 6, this is a spacious, wagon-shaped tent with a massive interior and a room-divider for added privacy. The updated pole design has increased stability against wind, the only major weakness of the old model. $500 $350 from REI Other things to know: Partial fly. No vestibule but an attachable mudroom sold separately. Already-large tent may not be ideal at campsites with limited space. We are still in the process of long-term testing. Read more: The Best Camping Tents Connie Park/NYT Wirecutter With a robust polycarbonate outer shell, aluminum corner guards, and an aluminum frame around the center seam that reinforces the body of the luggage, this isn't just a trunk — it's a traveling fortress. The two TSA locks close with a satisfying latch. Other things to know: Due to the design, some travelers consider trunks to be easier to pack and to maneuver. Does away with the standard zipper closure. Doesn't have a ton of built-in organization. Lifetime warranty. Use code WIRECUTTER. Read more: The Best Suitcases for Checking Away The Trunk This trunk has a clamshell design similar to that of the Monos Hybrid, for a similar price — but it has a zipper, instead of latches. It's available in 14 colors. Other things to know: Ideal if you prefer zippers over latch closures or you want a trunk to match your other Away luggage. We're fans of Away's luggage generally, but this trunk doesn't feel as robust or satisfying to use as our Monos pick. Enter your email address at the top of the sale page to generate a single-use discount code. Read more: The Best Suitcases for Checking Osprey Farpoint 40 and Fairview 40 Backpacks A great starter option for one-bag travel, this backpack is simple to pack and the easiest to carry of all our picks. It's built for travel but designed for hiking, so you'll be comfy on journeys by trail or TSA. $185 $120 from Amazon With a slightly smaller capacity and lower shoulder straps, the Fairview 40 is a great carry-on backpack for people with smaller torsos. It's just as durable and well made as the Farpoint 40, and the slight design difference doesn't change the fact that it's the easiest bag to carry out of all of our picks. Other things to know: Backed by Osprey's excellent lifetime warranty. Capacity is a little less spacious than it seems. Laptop and tech gear pocket isn't positioned directly against your back, shifting the center of gravity and making some loads feel heavier than they should. Lifetime warranty. The Fairview is on sale for $1 more at REI. Read more: The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks Tommy John Air Mesh Mid-Length Boxer Brief 6" (add five) Travel can be uncomfortable, but these boxer briefs won't be. Quick-drying, moisture-wicking, and easy to wash on the go, they felt like a fine-tailored garment and moved with the body, scoring higher than any other pair we tested. We loved the front pouch, which lacks seams that can chafe. Other things to know: Leg length is 6 inches, 2 inches shorter than that of our official pick version, but it's otherwise the same. Fly opens from the top, not the side. Deal price is on five single pairs; add five pairs to cart and use code WCSUMMER. Read more: The Best Underwear for Travel Maki Yazawa/NYT Wirecutter For cooking simple microwave dishes quickly and reheating leftovers well, we like these glass containers. Their airtight, leakproof lids each have a venting knob that you can open or close to capture or release steam as needed, and their rounded metal edges are safe for the microwave. You can store leftovers in the same dish, so cleanup is easy. $60 $45 from Anyday For college students with dorm microwaves, small-kitchen cooks, or meal-prepping aficionados, this square glass cookware can be great for cooking simple microwave dishes and reheating leftovers, as well as storing food. Each airtight, leakproof lid has a venting knob that you can open or close to capture or release steam as needed. $106 $75 from Anyday Other things to know: Dishwasher-, oven-, and freezer-safe. Not ideal for developing more-complex flavors. Each set includes two glass containers and their corresponding lids; use promo code WCROUND to get the deal price on the round set or WCSQUARE to get the deal price on the square set. Read more: These Glass Containers Made Me Hate the Microwave a Little Less Vornado ARA Oscillating Tower Fan Quiet and reliable, this tower fan has an energy-efficient DC-powered motor that moves air at up to nearly 13 mph on high. It also works as a lamp, providing pleasant and warm ambient lighting. We don't usually like tower fans, but this one surprised us. $250 $190 from Wayfair Use promo code WIRECUTTER Other things to know: Expensive. Not easy to clean. Comes with Vornado's reliable five-year warranty. Use promo code WIRECUTTER. Read more: I've Tested Dozens of Tower Fans. And I Hated Every Single One of Them — Until Now. Windmill AC with WhisperTech Other things to know: You can't open your window while using it. Typically more expensive than our top pick, and a little louder. Window support bracket not included. You can't control the direction of the fan. Use code WIRECUTTER25 to get the deal price, which includes shipping. Read more: The Best Air Conditioner Blu Dot Cache Sofa Generously cushioned, this cute tubular-aluminum-framed outdoor sofa comes fully assembled and built to last (ours from 2021 still looks practically new). The sturdy, rounded cushions are upholstered with durable Sunbrella fabric over a dry-fast, mildew-resistant foam. $4495 $3147 from Blu Dot Other things to know: The foam can be a little noisy. Cushion covers are not removable, but have been easy to wipe down in our experience. Five-year warranty. Use code WCSUMMER. Read more: Our Favorite Outdoor Sofas and Chairs Ring Alarm (2nd Generation) 14-piece home security system kit Reliable and fast, this easy-to-use security system also works with Amazon Alexa and other Ring devices, plus add-ons like cameras. It also offers the biggest bang for your buck when it comes to professional monitoring and 24/7 customer service. $300 $200 from Amazon Other things to know: Does not include a built-in Eero router, as the Pro model does. Optional Ring Protect Pro monitoring plan is $20 per month. Kit includes one base station, two keypads, eight contact sensors, two motion detectors, and one range extender. Amazon Prime membership required. Read more: The Best Home Security System Connie Park/NYT Wirecutter Linen sheets can be a game-changer for hot sleepers, and our longtime favorite set is durable, breathable, and one of the softest we've tested. The set includes a fitted sheet, a flat sheet, and two pillowcases, but you can also purchase by the piece. $445 $351 from Cultiver Use promo code WCSUMMER (queen) Other things to know: Like any linen sheets, these wrinkle easily. More limited sizing than sheets from other brands. No warranty, and a pretty standard 30-day return policy. Deal price is for the queen size, but all sizes are discounted with code WCSUMMER. Street price has risen in recent months. Read more: The Best Linen Sheets 280-Thread-Count Pima Cotton Percale Sheet Set (queen) With a durable construction that only gets softer with each wash, it's no surprise these supple sheets have ranked among our favorites for years. They remain the most crisp and breathable percale sheets we've tested. $169 $144 from Other things to know: Percale can feel too textured to those who prefer smooth, drapey sateen sheets. Not Oeko-Tex–certified. Set includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. One-year return policy. Code WCSUN15 can apply to all sizes, and all sizes qualify for free shipping. Read more: The Best Cotton Sheets Connie Park/NYT Wirecutter Meet the best sub-$50 earbuds we've tried. They have impressive sound and features for the price, as well as an IPX7 dust- and water-resistance rating and high-quality background-noise-reducing microphones that rival those of more expensive models. $40 $26 from Amazon Other things to know: They lack active noise cancellation and a hear-through mode. Sound quality isn't as balanced as that of our top pick. Use code EAFRE2SF to get the deal. We once saw a $16 lightning deal for these earbuds, but we doubt they'll drop that low again. Read more: The Best Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds Samsung The Frame QN65LS03DAFXZA LCD TV (2024 model, 65-inch) Want a TV that isn't just another big black box? The Frame is a great option for people who prefer a living room that doesn't look like it's dedicated to television. Although it resembles a framed piece of art when not in use, it still delivers the same bright, excellent image quality as many of Samsung's upper-tier QLED TVs. Other things to know: A subscription is necessary to access the full range of art options but not required for regular TV functionality. This is the 2024 model. It comes with a one-year Samsung parts-and-labor limited warranty, and free shipping for Amazon Prime members. Read more: The Frame Is a Delightful TV That Transforms Into Artwork Eero 6 Wi-Fi router (one unit) This compact router is easy to set up and smoothly delivers solid internet performance, even while several people are using the connection. It's also one of the easiest routers to hide, on account of its tiny size. You can expand its network by adding Eero extenders or routers or Echo Dot speakers. Other things to know: Slower overall than our top pick for heavy downloaders and gamers. Most suitable if you're subscribed to a low- to mid-tier internet plan (under 500 Mbps). Two Ethernet ports. Read more: The Best Wi-Fi Routers Marki Williams/NYT Wirecutter Our testers gave these versatile Levi's the highest overall score among straight-leg styles — even over pricey high-end options. They're not only comfy, booty-flattering, well-made, and under $100, but also made in a wide range of sizes and three inseams. The cotton-elastane blend is structured but fits comfortably on the first wear. Other things to know: Testers with more defined waists found these jeans true to size; others should consider sizing up. Deal available on select washes: Space to Think, Christina, and Neither Here Nor There. Free Red Tab membership required for free shipping. Read more: The Best Women's Jeans Evelyn Bobbie Defy Bra This smooth, stretchy bralette actually comfortably supports large breasts without any metal wires, clasps, or sliders — a near-miracle. Its high-back design and seamless edges create smooth contours, the sizing was spot-on, and we like that it's soft enough for lounging and supportive enough for active days. $98 $65 from Evelyn Bobbie Use promo code WIRECUTTER Other things to know: Not the cutest, and not ideal for low-cut or strappy tops. Some testers found it too hot and stifling. Not the easiest to pull on. Removable cups may slip out in the wash. Sizes S to 3XL (C to K cup, 30- to 52-inch band). Use code WIRECUTTER. Read more: The Best, Most Comfortable Bras Harper Wilde Base T-Shirt Bra (pack of three) A pleasure to wear all day long, this comfy underwire bra creates a smooth, defined silhouette. It's set apart by small details, such as the strap-adjustment sliders' location on the front, which allows the wearer to easily move them up and down without having to reach behind their back. Other things to know: We wish it came in more sizes beyond 32A to 42F. Straps are thinner than those of our other picks, and for people with heavier breasts, they may dig into the shoulders. Add three bras to cart and use code WCSUMMER to get the discount on the tan, brown, or black color, plus free shipping. Read more: The Best, Most Comfortable Bras Harper Wilde Bliss Triangle Bralette The thoughtful details of its wire-free pull-on design and adjustable straps make this comfy bralette tough to beat. The silky, pleasantly stretchy microfiber fits like a second skin, and the plunging neckline and low back work with a variety of tops but still provide ample coverage. $45 $27 from Harper Wilde Other things to know: Medium support may not be substantial enough if you have heavier, larger breasts. Lacks full nipple coverage. Doesn't provide much shaping. Available in sizes XS to 5XL. On sale in steel and tan with code WCSUMMER. Read more: The Best, Most Comfortable Bras ThirdLove 24/7 Classic Uplift Plunge Bra This pretty plunge bra is a sexy, supportive option offering outstanding comfort. It comes with removable push-up pads for a little extra oomph and is available in larger band sizes and half sizes. Other things to know: May not be supportive enough for larger busts. Sizes AA to H cup (including some half-cup sizes) and 32- to 44-inch band; not every cup size is offered for every band size. On sale in rose dust, amethyst, or coral with code LUV-WIRECUTTER. Read more: The Best Bras Saxx Non-Stop Stretch Cotton Boxer Brief (pack of three) Other things to know: Waistband is as close to perfect as we've found, but it rolled in certain situations. Machine-washable. Comes in sizes XS to XXL, with a 5-inch inseam. Use code PR-WCTRAVEL to get the deal price for a three-pack. Read more: The Best Men's Boxer Briefs Editor's note: The photo at the top of this article may reflect previous deals that are no longer valid and have been removed. Check out our Deals page for more great discounts on Wirecutter's expert-approved picks. This article was edited by Janie Campbell and Nathan Burrow. Here's what the Wirecutter Deals team is looking for when they hunt for the best prices on Wirecutter picks every day of the week. The Wirecutter Deals team breaks down a few simple ways to save money all year long.
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
13 myths about sunscreen you need to know - and the most common skin cancer hotspots on your body, revealed by dermatologists
You might think you know everything there is to know about sunscreen – just slap it on when the sun's out, right? – but a chat with a proper skin expert would probably reveal otherwise. From the areas that often get missed (and can therefore be skin cancer hotspots) to the efficacy of moisturisers and foundations that have 'SPF' emblazoned on them versus traditional sunscreens, there's a lot to unpack when it comes to keeping your skin safe against UVA and UVB rays. That's why we spoke to Dr Justine Kluk, consultant dermatologist who writes the Skin Confidence newsletter, and Skin + Me 's head of medical Dr Jason Thompson, to sort the myth from the fact when it comes to sun protection. MYTH: You can't get sunburn underwater Does being in the swimming pool keep you safe from the sun's rays? Unfortunately, the answer is no. 'You do need sunscreen in the pool' confirms Dr Kluk. 'UV radiation can penetrate below the surface of the water. So if you're swimming or even just standing waist-deep chatting, your skin is still exposed. Water also reflects sunlight, which can intensify UV exposure on any bits of your body above the surface (such as your shoulders, face and back).' MYTH: Expiry dates are just a guide There are some skincare and make-up items where you can take the expiry date with a pinch of salt, but sunscreen is definitely not one of them, says Dr Thompson. 'Sunscreen is the one product that really does need to be in date, given its role in protecting your skin from UV rays, which cause skin cancer and premature ageing,' he says. To find out how long your sun cream lasts 'look for a symbol on the bottle showing an open pot with a number, for example 6M, which means it is good for six months after opening. After this period you cannot be sure whether the product will remain effective.' If you're not sure how long the product has been open – which is often the case when we dig out the sunscreen each summer – then don't just hope for the best. 'Given how important sunscreen is, it is not worth the risk' says Thompson. 'If you are unsure, buy a new one.' Changes in smell and texture, or separation of the product, are strong signs that it has gone off. MYTH: A few episodes of sunburn don't matter People of a certain age might remember being told that a sunburn is a good thing, because once it's no longer red you go brown! Well guess what – the dermatologists certainly do not agree with this point. 'Studies show that just five sunburns can lead to a doubling in the risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest skin cancer' points out Thompson. If you have kids, you need to be extra conscientious, because 'In children up to the age of 15, a study published earlier this year found that every blistering sunburn episode results in a 3% increased risk of developing melanoma later in life.' If it's hard to get your kids out of the swimming pool or sun, then SPF 50 rash vests as well as sunscreen are a good idea, says Dr Kluk. MYTH: You can't burn when it's cold According to Thompson, people frequently get burnt when they are skiing, because 'snow reflects UV rays, increasing the dose your skin receives.' MYTH: Most people apply sunscreen correctly Quite simply, the majority of people are not applying enough sunscreen, and we're not applying it regularly enough. 'To get the labelled SPF, sunscreen must be applied at a thickness of 2mg per square centimetre of skin,' says Thompson. 'Studies show people often apply only one third to half this amount. This does not just halve the protection; it reduces it much more than that.' As an easy-to-follow guide, Kluk says 'for an adult, you need about a quarter of a teaspoon of sunscreen for the face, neck and ears, and six to eight teaspoons for the body if you're not covered up'. Not reapplying is also a common issue that can lead to sunburn. 'Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours when outdoors, and more frequently after swimming, sweating or towelling off,' says Kluk. MYTH: You can tan completely safely Some people tan very easily, which may lead you to believe that there's no long-term implications to doing so. Although the impact varies according to your skin type, Kluk says it is 'not really' possible to tan safely. 'A tan is your skin's way of trying to protect itself, and means UV damage has already occurred,' she says. 'Some people burn more easily, others tan more easily, but both are forms of sun damage.' Thompson adds 'For people with fair skin, lots of moles or a history of skin cancer, tanning may significantly raise their risk of skin cancer and photo-ageing. For those with darker skin tones who rarely burn, the cancer risk is lower, but repeated exposure can still lead to premature ageing and worsening of hyperpigmentation disorders like melasma.' MYTH: Sunscreen needs to absorb before working Most of us have heard the rule about applying sunscreen before you go out, but the actual reason behind it might not be that widely known. 'The British Association of Dermatologists recommends applying sunscreen 10 to 15 minutes before going outdoors, and then again shortly after' explains Thompson. 'This is not because sunscreen needs to absorb before working (that's a myth) but because a second application helps cover areas you may have missed the first time round'. Common areas that people miss include the ears, top of the scalp, lips, eyelids and tops of the feet. 'These are all sites where skin cancers often develop' reveals Thompson. MYTH: When it's cloudy you don't need to worry about sun protection 'Cloud cover does not reliably block UV, and in some cases can scatter rays and increase your exposure' reveals Thompson. A more reliable way to know if you need sun protection than simply looking at the sky is to check the UV index that day. 'If it is 3 or above, sun protection is recommended.' MYTH: SPF make-up alone is fine According to Thompson 'SPF is now being incorporated into a wide range of products, including make-up, moisturisers, mists and setting sprays. This is generally a good thing, as these products can provide an extra layer of protection.' However, he says they should be 'seen as an additional support' with 'a good quality cream or lotion sunscreen used as the main form of protection.' He adds that 'moisturisers with SPF will often not offer broad spectrum protection [against both UVA and UVB rays] as they are not categorised as dedicated sunscreen products', and therefore don't have to adhere to the same rules. Sunscreen should be reapplied to the face every two hours – if this is impractical once you've got make-up on, then a spray or stick sunscreen can work too. MYTH: A spray sunscreen will give you the best coverage Spray-on sunscreens have become increasingly popular in recent years, perhaps because it feels that by hosing yourself down with the stuff you're getting the ultimate level of coverage. It is true that all sunscreen formats are effective when applied correctly, but the problem of 'under-dosing' (i.e. not applying enough) is more prevalent with spray and stick formats because 'there's very little help or advice out there to guide people on the amount' says Thompson. A cream or lotion may be your best best if you want to make sure you're getting the right amount. MYTH: Sunscreen can stop you getting moles While freckles and sun spots are a response to UV, and can be prevented by regular and correct use of sunscreen, moles are 'largely genetic' explains Thompson. However, while UV exposure might not cause them to form, it can cause changes to existing moles. MYTH: Sunscreen is the most effective way to protect your skin 'It's important to remember that no sunscreen product will block 100% of the UV rays' says Thompson. 'Physical protection such as hats, sunglasses and clothing remains important, and actually more effective than sunscreen.' Kluk agrees, recommending that we 'avoid direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm' and 'opt for UV protective clothing where you can.' MYTH: All sun exposure is bad In case all these warnings have left you thinking you should simply never leave the house again, it's worth noting that 'sunlight does have health benefits', according to Thompson. 'It helps us produce vitamin D, can support cardiovascular health by releasing nitric oxide in the skin, and has a positive impact on mental wellbeing.' As with most things, moderation is key. 'The most important universal message is to avoid burning,' says Thompson.
