Sunlight provides life and nourishment to many living organisms on this planet. The warm rays may feel luxurious as you step out of an air-conditioned building, but commonly accepted myths make it seem safer than it actually is. See everything you need to know about the basic tan myth and other misconceptions that can put you at risk for skin damage.
What is the basic tan myth?
The basic tan myth is a belief about sun safety that has recently resurfaced on TikTok. People claim that getting a light tan before spending extended periods of time in the sun (such as lounging on the beach) helps your skin build up tolerance to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Health experts stated that this was not true and warned against any sun exposure carries the same risk of burns and skin cancer.
Other common misconceptions about sun exposure
Everyone is trying to do their best to stay safe. That’s why misconceptions about sun exposure, such as the basic tan myth, continue to linger in the public’s mind. Here are a few other widely held beliefs that accidentally put people at greater risk for skin damage.
1. Sunshine cannot poison you
Sunshine in itself is not a toxic substance. However, the body develops burns after 15 minutes of exposure without sunscreen. If you stay out in the sun for long periods of time, the same study shows that your burns can become so severe that you experience symptoms of sun poisoning, such as:
- Nausea
- Headache
- Tingling of the skin
- Chills
- Fever
Wearing sunscreen is an easy way to prevent this condition. Although sunshine is not toxic, this condition and its symptoms can affect anyone.
2. Risk of heat and sunburn correlate
People sometimes think that they are more likely to get sunburn on warmer days. Researchers are taking notice ultraviolet B (UVB) rays cause sunburn damage, not necessarily the temperature of the air. You might feel like this is related if you spend more time outside on hot days, being at the beach or by the pool, rather than hanging out indoors.
Given that 20% of Americans will develop skin cancermore effective UV avoidance strategies will reduce your chances. Look for UV radiation forecasts in your area instead of temperature forecasts to better understand your risk.
3. Sun exposure is essential for vitamin D
This may be the case when your skin comes into contact with UV radiation generating approximately 10,000 international units (IE) vitamin D. However, you don’t have to burn to support your health with this vitamin. It is also easily available in many food sources such as fish, milk, mushrooms and orange juice.
4. Severe UV Burns Limit future damage from sunburn
People may think that sunscreen makes your skin cells harder. After the healing process is complete, it is easy to assume that the affected area will develop a more robust resistance to the sun. It’s the same way the body learns to fight viruses, but this isn’t the case with your skin.
Excessive exposure to UV rays increases your risk of skin cancer because your body suffers radiation damage. Even if you don’t burn easily, your skin cells are still affected by UV radiation. Sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 is the best way to limit future sunburn, in addition to measures such as covering your skin with protective fabric or staying in the shade of a sturdy structure.
5. Clouds prevent sunburn
Many people think that cloud cover protects them from possible sunburn. It makes sense that the shadow of a cloud would reduce the risk, but research shows otherwise. Depending on the cloud and atmospheric conditions, 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds. It is always important to wear sunscreen, even when it is cloudy.
If you want to choose the best shady spot to relax, find shade under a sturdy structure. Clouds are not inherently solid, even though they look dense. The shade of your patio or a poolside umbrella is a much safer place to kick back if you’re not wearing sunscreen.
Protect yourself from sun exposure
If you’re trying to avoid sunburn this summer, remember that these myths have no scientific standing whatsoever. Tanning, repeated burns and lower temperatures cannot prevent radiation damage to your skin cells. Always apply sunscreen before enjoying the sun to boost your long-term health.
