Summer is the season of sunshine and golden skin, but also of misconceptions about sun protection. Although information on this topic is becoming increasingly widespread, some myths still persist. Let’s look at the seven most common ones—including the one about scrubs—so we can learn how to truly protect our skin (and our tan!).
1. “Exfoliating scrubs remove your tan”
False. Scrubs remove dead skin cells from the surface, not your tan, which is the result of melanin production in the deeper layers of the epidermis. In fact, a gentle scrub makes the skin look brighter and more even, helping your tan last longer.
Tip: use a gentle scrub once or twice a week and always moisturize your skin thoroughly afterward.
2. “You don’t need sun protection once you have a tan”
A tan is not a shield, but rather the skin’s response to oxidative stress caused by UV rays. Even though the skin appears darker after sun exposure, it is still vulnerable to sun damage, premature aging, and even melanoma.
Tip: continue to use sun protection, even if you already have a tan.
3. “The higher the protection, the less I tan”
This isn’t entirely true. Sunscreens do not completely block UV rays, but they do reduce their intensity. This means that while you will tan more slowly, you will do so more safely, evenly, and for longer.
Tip: choose an SPF suitable for your skin type and always reapply every two hours.
4. “Sunscreen is useless when it’s cloudy”
Wrong. Up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate clouds, and even on gray days, the sun can damage your skin.
Tip: always apply sun protection when outdoors, even on overcast days.
5. “Sunscreen should only be used at the beach”
Sun protection is also important in the city. UVA rays, which cause skin aging, pass through glass and clouds, affecting your skin even while you are driving or walking down the street.
Tip: choose a daily SPF face cream to incorporate into your skincare routine.
6. “One application a day is enough”
Unfortunately, it isn’t. Sweating, swimming in the sea or pool, and friction from towels or clothing reduce the effectiveness of sun protection. This is why it is essential to reapply sunscreen regularly, every two hours and after every swim.
Tip: always carry your sunscreen with you in a spray or travel-size format.
7. “Waterproof products never need to be reapplied”
Waterproof does not mean invincible! After swimming, even if the product is water-resistant, some of its protection is lost. Furthermore, drying yourself with a towel can remove the protective film.
Tip: always reapply sun protection after swimming, even if it is water-resistant.
Protecting your skin from the sun does not mean giving up your tan, but rather achieving it intelligently. Debunking these false myths helps us enjoy the sun in a healthy and mindful way, keeping our skin beautiful, youthful, and protected for longer.
And don’t forget that after sun exposure, it is essential to care for your skin to keep it hydrated, toned, and radiant. An excellent ally? Hyalustar’s Toning Body Cream:
thanks to PrincipHYAL® Cube3 hyaluronic acid combined with vitamins and plant oils, it deeply hydrates and is perfect for prolonging the effects of your tan while restoring comfort to skin stressed by the sun.
