Think getting a base tan will protect your skin" Or that you need to bake in the sun to soak up vitamin D" Think again. We asked Dr. Meghan O?Brien, a board certified dermatologist specializing in comprehensive medical and cosmetic dermatology at Tribeca Park Dermatology in New York City, to give us the lowdown on six surprising sunscreen myths. Even we were shocked at some the things Dr. O’Brien told us. Believe us when we say you’re going to want to read these sunscreen facts and adjust your routine accordingly.
Myth: It?s a good idea to get a base tan before spending time in the sun
?Any type of tan is a sign of sun damage, as the pigment producing cells in the skin tan to protect themselves from further sun exposure. Having a base tan is the equivalent to wearing an SPF of 4 or less (and you?ve damaged your skin to get it!) so you?ll be much better off skipping the base tan and applying a higher SPF to protect your skin from a burn.? MORE: This Is Kourtney Kardashian’s Favorite Non-Toxic Sunscreen
Myth: I apply sunscreen in the morning, so I?m protected when I head out for lunch
?Applying a daily SPF in the morning will protect you from incidental sun exposure throughout the day. However, if you are planning to have lunch outside, go for a walk in a park or if your commute includes sun exposure, I recommend reapplying again with a powder-based or spray SPF that can be applied without having to redo makeup.?
Myth: My dark skin doesn?t burn, s...