Let’s talk about something we ALL need but don’t always love to talk about: sunscreen. Oh! I know. It’s not the most glamorous part of your makeup routine, but trust me, your skin will love you for it. Whether it’s a cloudy day or scorching hot, sun protection needs to live rent-free in your skincare routine. But, here’s the thing: there are a ton of sunscreen myths out there. So many, in fact, that sometimes it feels like you need a degree to figure out what’s real and what’s…well, not. But that’s why I’m here! If you’ve ever wondered about sunscreen—like, “Do I really need it? Should I even bother if I’m not at the beach?”—keep reading because, sis, we are busting these myths wide open today. Let’s GO!
Myth 1: “You don’t need sunscreen if it’s cloudy”
A lot of people think sunscreen is only for beach days or when the sun is literally burning your eyeballs out of your head. But, hold up: even on those cloudy, overcast days, the sun’s rays are still doing their thing.
Here’s the tea: Up to 80% of UV rays can cut through clouds. YUP. So even if it’s cool and grey outside, some sneaky sunbeams are making their way to your precious skin, potentially causing all sorts of damage. And don’t get me started on snow: it reflects UV rays which means you might be catching more sun than you realize. So yeah, if you’re hitting the slopes, bring that sunscreen baby!
“Just because it’s cloudy doesn’t mean you’re safe from the sun. Your skin *always* needs protection!”
Myth 2: “SPF 100 is WAY better than SPF 30”
So here’s something wild: I’ve had more than a few people come into the studio asking if they need like SPF 1000 or something insane. Guys, let’s calm down. You’d think a super high SPF would be infinitely better, right? But that’s not how sunscreens work.
Here’s the breakdown:
| SPF | UVB Protection |
|---|---|
| SPF 15 | About 93% |
| SPF 30 | About 97% |
| SPF 50 | About 98% |
Yeah, you see that? There’s only a little difference between SPF 30 and SPF 50, and SPF 100 isn’t a magical cloak of invincibility. The most important thing is to pick a sunscreen that you’ll actually use (and reapply), instead of freaking out over an SPF number. So don’t be fooled into thinking the higher number means it’s going to last you longer or protect you more effectively. You still have to reapply!
Myth 3: “Dark skin doesn’t need sunscreen”
OK, who invited this myth to the party? Because whoever started this needs a serious skin lesson.
Please listen to this loud and clear, babes: Melanin is magic, but it is NOT a substitute for sunscreen. If you’ve got darker skin, your melanin gives you some natural protection, but not nearly enough to skip out on sunscreen. Apparently, some people think darker skin won’t burn or get sunspots but the truth is: UV rays can still cause damage no matter your skin tone. Being a melanin queen doesn’t give you a “sunscreen-free” pass.
“Regardless of your skin color, sunscreen is an EVERYDAY must. Melanin is cool but it won’t block those dangerous rays.”
Myth 4: “Sunscreen is only for the beach”
Ah, the classic, “I don’t need sunscreen unless I’m at the beach…right?” WRONG.
Girl, are you outside? Are you sitting by a window? Are the UV rays still in existence? Then yeah, you need sunscreen. People think sunscreen is only necessary when they’re soaking up some rays in a bikini by the ocean, and I’m here to tell you: UV rays have zero chill. They sneak up on you even when you’re sitting in traffic, having brunch on the patio, or just chilling at the park.
It’s honestly anti-beach culture of UV rays to show up when we’re not vibing in our cute swimwear, but hey, that’s nature for you. So, your sunscreen has to come through every single day—not just when you’re living your best beach girl fantasies.
Myth 5: “My makeup already has SPF, I’m good!”
Oooh, this one’s spicy and I hear it a LOT. I’m a makeup artist so trust me on this: while some foundations or BB creams have SPF, it’s usually not enough to give you the protection you need.
Here’s the truth: You would have to apply an ungodly amount of foundation to get the same SPF protection that actual sunscreen gives. And…who’s doing that? No one. Makeup with SPF is cute and all but that’s not a reason to skip sunscreen. Use your normal sunscreen before you apply your makeup and if you still want to use an SPF foundation on top, go for it. Just don’t skip the sunscreen. I’ve said sunscreen a lot in this paragraph but you get what I’m saying.
“Always layer sunscreen under your makeup even if your foundation says it has SPF. Trust me: it’s the best thing you can do for your skin!”
Myth 6: “Sunscreen is bad for your skin”
I feel like this myth popped up from way back in the day when sunscreens were, like, thick, greasy, and left you looking like a ghost. But we’re not living in that beauty nightmare anymore! There are SO many sunscreen options now for different skin types. If you’ve got sensitive skin, loads of brands have developed lightweight, mineral sunscreens that won’t clog your pores or irritate you.
And don’t come at me with the “sunscreen causes acne” myth because that’s outdated too. If your sunscreen is causing breakouts, it’s because you’re not using the right type for your skin, boo! Everyone’s skin is different: try looking for oil-free, non-comedogenic (fancy term for ‘won’t clog your pores’) sunscreens. Trust, there are so many bomb formulas out there now that don’t make you feel sticky or break you out.
Myth 7: “Sunscreen isn’t necessary indoors”
Indoor peeps, you’re not off the hook. Just because you’re binge-watching Netflix all weekend (I see you, I’ve done it too) doesn’t mean the sun can’t reach you. If the sun is hitting you through your windows, UV rays are penetrating through that glass and onto your skin. Yup, windows won’t block UV rays. Sooo does that mean you need sunscreen when binging “Stranger Things”? Um, yes.
Also, blue light from our devices (phones, laptops, tablets, you name it) can cause damage to our skin too. I don’t know about you, but with the amount of time I spend scrolling Insta and TikTok, I could probably use all the extra skin help I can get.
Myth 8: “You don’t need sunscreen after 6pm”
Sooo it’s dusk and you think the sun’s calling it a day, which means you’re free to frolic around without SPF, right? Nah, sis.
Even in the late afternoon or early evening, there’s still UV radiation creeping around. Granted, it’s less intense than noon, but UV rays don’t clock out early. Evening festivals or sunset parties? Yup, still need sunscreen.
Most dermatologists recommend keeping sunscreen on until the sun’s completely gone down because those are prime hours for lingering rays.
Myth 9: “I never burn, so I must not need sunscreen!”
I’m looking at those of you who tan easily or rarely burn. Just because you don’t come back from the beach looking like a lobster doesn’t mean your skin isn’t getting damaged. Burning is actually your skin’s extreme warning system, but even if you don’t burn, UV rays can still cause wrinkles, spots, and at worst, can lead to skin cancer down the road.
Tanning is your skin’s way of trying to protect itself, but it’s not a healthy response. A tan or “healthy glow” comes from skin that’s been damaged by the sun, and honestly, it’s better just to fake it with bronzer or self-tanner.
Sunscreen Is Non-Negotiable!
To wrap it up, sunscreen is NOT optional, babes. The myths floating around about when and how to use sunscreen are just that: MYTHS. And honestly, we’re too cute to risk getting sunburned or skin damage just because someone said you don’t need sunscreen inside or because SPF 30 wasn’t enough. Repeat after me: I will wear my sunscreen every. single. day. I know it doesn’t give off major glam vibes like a glittery eyeshadow palette but protecting your skin is the ultimate glow-up move.
Also, I just want to throw it in here: please reapply your sunscreen every 2 hours, especially if you’re outdoors or sweating. Snow, rain, or shine—get that SPF all over yourself.
Okay, rant over. Go layer that sunscreen like you layer your favorite lip gloss! Your future skin will thank you. 😘
