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BEAUTY TIPS

5 sun protection myths, explained

From vitamin D to the “base tan”

5 sun protection
myths, explained

From vitamin D to the “base tan”

The sun has its benefits, but sunscreen and sun care are still surrounded by misconceptions. Some resurface every summer, raising questions about SPF, UV protection, and what your skin really needs. To help you enjoy the sun more safely, we asked our experts to separate fact from fiction and explain what science says about five common myths.

“Sunscreen blocks vitamin D”
FALSE

Your skin doesn’t absorb vitamin D from the sun—it produces it when exposed to UVB rays. While sunscreen helps reduce the amount of UV radiation that reaches your skin, it doesn’t completely block vitamin D production.

PRO-TIP: If you’re concerned about your vitamin D levels, it’s best to speak with a healthcare professional rather than try to manage it with unprotected sun exposure.

Brunette woman wearing a velvet brown suit looking at camera
Brunette woman wearing a velvet brown suit looking at camera

“A base tan protects my skin”
FALSE

The sun can feel amazing. Unprotected exposure? Not so much. Gradually exposing your skin to the sun doesn’t create a natural barrier against UV rays. A tan is your skin’s defense response—not a shield.

PRO-TIP: Yes, your skin has memory—but unfortunately, it’s for accumulated sun damage. That’s why daily sunscreen matters from the very start.

“Sunscreens don’t expire”
FALSE

Over time, heat and direct light can affect sunscreen formulas, making them less effective. That’s why sunscreen products include either an expiration date or a period-after-opening symbol on the packaging.

PRO-TIP: Even if that period hasn’t passed, don’t risk it if the smell, texture, or color has changed. Your skin doesn’t need cosmetic archaeology.

DECODE YOUR SKINCARE
Brunette woman wearing a velvet brown suit looking at camera
Brunette woman wearing a velvet brown suit looking at camera

“The SPF number tells you how many minutes you’re protected”
FALSE

SPF 50 doesn’t mean 50 minutes of protection. Instead, SPF indicates how much longer your skin is protected from UVB rays compared to unprotected skin. The actual duration of protection depends on factors like your skin type, the time of day, how much sunscreen you apply, and whether you’re sweating, swimming, or toweling off.

PRO-TIP: Since there are so many variables, apply sunscreen 15–30 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every two hours, or after swimming, sweating, or toweling off.

HOW TO CALCULATE SPF

“Chemical sunscreen filters are harmful”
FALSE

Chemical filters have a bad reputation because some older UV filters weren’t suitable for certain skin types. But sun care has evolved. Today’s sunscreen filters meet strict safety regulations, are thoroughly tested, and are well tolerated by most skin types.

PRO-TIP: Chemical filters are often ideal if you’re looking for lightweight, invisible textures that feel comfortable for daily wear. If your skin is sensitive, reactive, or prone to redness, a mineral sunscreen may be a better fit. The best formula is always the one your skin tolerates well—and the one you’ll actually use.

LEARN MORE
Brunette woman wearing a velvet brown suit looking at camera

The best way to enjoy the sun? Protect your skin like you mean it. Find a sunscreen you love, wear it every day, and make it part of your daily ritual.

PROTECT MY SKIN