When it comes to sun protection, there are plenty of myths that people still believe - many of which can lead to serious skin damage over time. From the idea that cloudy days don’t require sunscreen to the myth that darker skin doesn’t burn, misinformation can put your skin at risk.
It’s time to separate fact from fiction and ensure you’re properly protected from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Here are five common sun protection myths—and the truth behind them.
Myth #1: “You Don’t Need Sunscreen on Cloudy Days”
The Truth: UV rays penetrate through clouds, meaning you can still get sunburnt even when it’s overcast.
Many people skip sunscreen on cloudy or cool days, assuming the sun isn’t strong enough to cause damage. However, up to 80% of UV radiation can pass through clouds, putting your skin at risk without you even realising it.
How to Stay Protected: Apply a broad-spectrum SPF50+ sunscreen like SParms 100% Organic Sunscreen, even on cloudy days. It’s lightweight, natural, and suitable for sensitive skin.
Myth #2: “Darker Skin Doesn’t Burn”
The Truth: While darker skin has more melanin, it can still suffer from UV damage, sunburn, and even skin cancer.
It’s a common misconception that people with darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen or UV protection. While melanin provides some natural defence against UV rays, it doesn’t make skin immune to sun damage. In fact, skin cancer in darker skin tones is often diagnosed later, making it more dangerous.
How to Stay Protected: Regardless of skin tone, wear UPF50+ clothing, apply sunscreen, and seek shade during peak UV hours. SParms sun sleeves and body shirts provide full-coverage UV protection while keeping you cool.
Myth #3: “If You’re in the Water, You’re Safe from the Sun”
The Truth: Water actually reflects UV rays, increasing your sun exposure and making sunburn more likely.
Swimming or spending time near water (like at the beach, lake, or pool) can double your UV exposure. This is because water reflects up to 10% of UV radiation, meaning you’re getting hit from both above and below. Even worse, sunscreen washes off in the water, reducing its effectiveness.
How to Stay Protected:
- Apply a water-resistant SPF50+ sunscreen, like SParms 100% Organic Sunscreen.
- Wear UPF50+ swimwear, rashies, and SParms arm sleeves or leggings when spending long hours in the sun.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours—or sooner if swimming.
Myth #4: “Clothing Protects You from the Sun”
The Truth: Not all clothing provides UV protection, and some fabrics allow UV rays to pass through.
Many people assume that just wearing long sleeves or any clothing is enough to block UV rays. However, not all fabrics are created equal. A plain cotton t-shirt, for example, only has a UPF of around 5, meaning 80% of UV rays can still penetrate the fabric and reach your skin.
How to Stay Protected:
- Opt for UPF50+ clothing like SParms sun sleeves, body shirts, and leg sleeves, which block 98% of UVA and UVB rays.
- Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics with sun protection built-in, rather than relying on regular clothing.
Myth #5: “You Only Need Sunscreen on Hot Days”
The Truth: UV rays are present year-round, even when it’s cold.
People often associate sunscreen with summer and hot weather, but the reality is that UV radiation is present every day—even in winter. In fact, UV rays can be stronger in winter in some regions due to reflection from snow or ice.
How to Stay Protected: Make sunscreen and UPF50+ clothing part of your daily routine—whether it’s hot or cold, sunny or cloudy. SParms cooling fabric makes it easy to stay covered without overheating.
Final Thoughts: Stay Sun-Smart Year-Round
Now that you know the truth about sun protection, it’s time to take action. Don’t let these myths put your skin health at risk. Whether it’s cloudy, cool, or you’re just running errands, UV rays are always present—and protecting your skin should be a daily priority.
SParms makes it easy to stay sun-safe with UPF50+ clothing, organic sunscreen, and breathable sun protection gear.
Shop the SParms collection today and stay protected wherever you go!