We have a wealth of skincare knowledge available at our fingertips, yet when it comes to sun protection, there is still a lot of misinformation and myths doing the rounds. This is partly due to the fact that we didn’t always know as much about the sun and UV rays as we do today.
Case in point – today we know that sun exposure is the number one cause of accelerated skin ageing and uneven skin tone, prompting us to take precautions every day. However, this information wasn’t always widely available, which means that most of us grew up in households where sunscreen was reserved solely for beach days.
To ensure your skin is protected from harmful UVA and UVB rays, to maintain a more even skin tone and to prevent premature or accelerated ageing, it is essential to separate the facts from fiction.
Leaders in sun protection products for the whole family, NIVEA SUN, has busted five of the most common sun protection myths to help you better protect your skin all year round:
Myth: Sun protection is only necessary in summer
The sun’s UVB rays (the ones that cause sun burn) are stronger during summer, which is why we’re more likely to develop sun burn in summer than in winter. However, the sun’s UVA rays (the ones responsible for skin ageing and DNA damage) are dangerous all year round. Did you know that they can damage your skin even on an overcast day? That’s why it is essential to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day of the year.
Myth: Sun protection products shouldn’t be applied to sensitive skin
This couldn’t be further from the truth! Sensitive skin is extremely vulnerable to sun burn and sun damage, and thus needs daily protection from UV rays. However, because sensitive skin may be reactive to certain skincare ingredients, it is important to use a product with a formula specially designed for the unique needs of sensitive skin.
NIVEA SUN UV Face Sensitive Control Cream SPF50 is the ideal solution for those with sensitivity, sun allergies and skin irritations. This non-greasy, unperfumed cream is ideal for everyday use. Specially developed for sensitive skin, it offers broad spectrum protection from the outside against UVA and UVB rays, as well as from high energy visible light. Plus, it protects skin from the inside thanks to its powerful antioxidant content that activates the skin’s own defence mechanism. The formula is 67% biodegradable and respectful of the ocean thanks to being free from UV filters Octinoxate, Oxybenzone and Octocrylene as well as microplastics.
Myth: Sunscreens leave a greasy, sticky residue on the skin
Many years ago, the average sunscreen was thick, sticky, and often left a white, shiny cast on the skin. For this reason, many people chose not to apply them. However, thanks to modern technology, it is possible for a high-performance sunscreen to have a non-greasy, shine-free formula that isn’t visible on the skin.
If your skin is oily, prone to shine, or you just prefer a matte finish, Try NIVEA Sun UV Face Shine Control Cream SPF50. It provides effective and immediate UVA and UVB protection and contains a naturally derived antioxidant to empower skin to protect itself against sun damage. Its hydrating formula is eye-friendly (and ophthalmologically proven!), non-greasy, non-sticky and offers a long-lasting mattifying effect, with a light feeling on the skin. Plus, it absorbs excess oil from the skin’s surface, making it the ideal product for oily and combination skins.
Myth: The only purpose of sunscreen is to protect skin from sunburn
Yes, sun protection products protect the skin from getting burnt when time is spent outdoors, but that is only one of the benefits of using sun protection. A good quality, broad spectrum sunscreen also helps protect the skin against sun-induced ageing, the formation of sunspots and dark marks and DNA damage. If you want an added anti-ageing boost from your sun protection product, choose a formula that contains additional anti-ageing ingredients.
NIVEA Sun UV Face Anti-Age Q10 SPF50 has a formula rich in the anti-ageing ingredient Q10, which helps prevent and fight the appearance of sun-induced fine lines, wrinkles, and pigment spots. The moisturising, skin-compatible formula contains a naturally derived antioxidant to help strengthen skin while offering highly effective UVA and UVB protection. Its light and silky formula glides on like a dream and leaves skin feeling soft and smooth.
Myth: Sun protection products are not safe for children’s skin
When it comes to children’s skin, it’s wise to choose products with gentle formulas that are free from harsh ingredients that may potentially irritate delicate skins. However, that doesn’t mean children shouldn’t wear sunscreen. A child’s skin is delicate and very vulnerable to sun burn and sun damage, so it is essential to apply sun protection to all exposed parts of their bodies before they spend time outdoors. When making your sunscreen purchase, choose a product with an effective yet gentle formula that is safe for the whole family.
Try NIVEA Sun Kids Protect & Care SPF50+ TRIGGER SPRAY
Provides children UV protection against sunburn & long-term skin damage. The formula absorbs quickly, supports the skin’s protective barrier, and provides long-lasting moisture to reduce the risk of sun allergies. The formula is 73% biodegradable & respects the ocean by being free from UV filters Octinoxate, Oxybenzone, Octocrylene & free of Microplastic.
Regardless of your age, skin tone or skin type, sun protection is arguably the most important part of your daily skincare regime. Apply a broad-spectrum sun protection product daily and enjoy healthier skin, a more even skin tone and younger-looking skin for longer.
This post was sponsored by NIVEA.
