Expert Stephan Lautenschlager advises: Does more sunscreen really mean more protection, Doctor?

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Vacations were booked and the suitcases were almost packed. Now is the time to plan ahead so there are no rude awakenings on the beach. Because many people underestimate solar radiation in distant countries. In general, the closer we are to the equator, the more stressful the UV rays are on our skin. We must use the right sunscreen on time to avoid exposing them to unnecessary risks. and processing. Stephan Lautenschlager, chief dermatologist at Stadtspital Waid and Triemli in Zurich, dispels 8 myths about sun protection and lays out a few valuable tips so we don’t keep groping in the dark.

Myth 1: Tube used last summer is still good

TRUE AND FALSE. Manufacturers guarantee effectiveness until the stated expiration date. Once this is achieved, the UV protection does not disappear immediately, but it can change components due to the oxygen getting in. If the smell and consistency have not changed and the sunscreen has not been exposed to excessive heat several times, we can continue to use it.

Myth #2: We’re protected all day with a waterproof sunscreen

WRONG. A waterproof product has passed two 20-minute swim standard tests, typically in moderate sea conditions. Taking a long bath, sweating and washing with a towel while drying the skin reduce its protective effect. Therefore, it is important that we apply sunscreen repeatedly throughout the day while sunbathing.

Myth 3: A sunscreen with a high SPF prevents us from tanning

WRONG. The factor called sun protection factor refers to how long we can sunbathe without burning ourselves. It is a measure of protection from UV-B rays. However, since tanning is mainly caused by UV-A rays, we must also make sure that the sunscreen has a UV-A filter. This is symbolized by the print on the packaging of a small circle with “A” or “UVA” inside. So keep your eyes open while shopping.

Myth 4: Sun protection is unnecessary in the shade or on a cloudy day

WRONG. We are exposed to UV-B and UV-A rays even in cloudy weather or under sun visors. Although cooler in the shade, about half of all rays still reach our skin. This is because of the environment. Especially the water surface or white sand reflect sunlight even under a beach umbrella.

Myth 5: Visiting a solarium is the best way to prepare our skin for holiday sunbathing.

WRONG. Please don’t: the tube emits high-intensity UV-A rays. These not only support the formation of wrinkles but also the development of skin cancer in the long term. The skin actually tolerates the sun better afterwards, but at the expense of our health, which suffers as a result.

Myth 6: Sunscreen causes vitamin D deficiency

WRONG. Numerous studies have shown that sunscreen has little or no effect on it. Even protection factors as high as 50+ show only a minimal decrease in the concentration of vitamin D in our blood. For the body’s own production of vitamin D, it is completely sufficient to sunbathe our hands, arms and face for ten minutes 2-3 times a week from spring to autumn.

Myth 7: No sunburn means no skin cancer

WRONG. UV-A rays that do not cause sunburn also play a role in the development of skin cancer. Various studies of solarium users show that even without sunburn, the risk of melanoma, the worst type of skin cancer, is four times higher than that of people who do not go to the solarium.

Myth 8: Too much cream equals too much protection

TRUE AND FALSE. In fact, it is very important that we use the cream boldly and not use the lotion sparingly. However, it is just as important that we use a sunscreen suitable for our skin type and apply the product evenly – including the back and exposed areas such as the ears and feet.

this is how we protect ourselves

In general, we should prefer textile sun protection to cream or lotion. If this is not possible, we must consider the following:

• Avoiding the midday sun between 11:00 and 15:00
• Applying enough sunscreen – more is more
• Remember to apply evenly
• It is preferable to use a high SPF – 50+
• Apply sunscreen BEFORE tanning
• Using a waterproof broad spectrum formulation (with UVA and UVB)
• Reapply after prolonged swimming, sweating and drying.
• Creams, lotions, and the like should not encourage you to prolong sunbathing.

Source : Blick