Spring has sprung and the girls are back outside which means you should be too! Safely, of course. Whether you’re skeptical about sunscreen, confused about how to use it, or looking for a refresher, consider this your complete breakdown. We’re busting some of the biggest myths about SPF, explaining why it matters for all skin types, and walking you through exactly how to use it, from application to re-application.

What Does Sunscreen Actually Do?

Before we get into the myths, let's cover the basics. The sun emits ultraviolet (UV) rays, which are responsible for about 90% of the skin's premature aging. There are two types of UV light that reach us:

Ultraviolet A (UVA)

These make up about 95% of the UV light that reaches Earth. They penetrate deep into the skin, which often means it may take years for the damage it causes to become visible. They damage the collagen and fibers that make your skin youthful and elastic. Think wrinkles, sagging, and loss of elasticity. 

Ultraviolet B (UVB)

Making up the remaining 5% of UV rays, UVB rays don’t penetrate as far as UVA rays but are far more intense. These are the rays responsible for sunburns and DNA damage to skin cells, which can lead to mutations that cause skin cancer. These are the rays you feel on a hot summer day.

A simple way to remember the difference? A for aging, B for burning.

Sunscreen works by creating a barrier that reduces the amount of UV radiation that penetrates your skin. There are two primary types:

• Chemical sunscreens absorb UV light and convert it into heat, neutralizing it before it can cause damage.
• Physical (mineral) sunscreens sit on top of the skin and reflect UV light away entirely.

SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. The number tells you how well a sunscreen protects against UVB radiation. The higher the better the protection. Always use a minimum of SPF 30 for daily use.

The Biggest SPF Myths, Debunked

There are many myths when it comes to SPF use and lots of misinformation. The truth is, it is actually simpler than you think. Let’s go through some of the biggest myths and break down where exactly they go wrong.

Myth #1: People with melanin-rich skin don’t need to wear SPF

This couldn’t be further from the truth! SPF isn’t just about preventing sunburns. It plays a critical role in protecting against skin cancer, which affects people of all skin tones. Furthermore, UV exposure is one of the leading causes of dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging, all of which affect people with melanin-rich skin. And yes, people with deeper skin tones can, and do, get sunburns. If you have sensitive skin or a condition like rosacea, daily SPF can also help prevent UV-triggered flare-ups. Bottom line: everyone needs SPF.

Myth #2: You can’t tan while using SPF 

Sunscreen reduces the amount of UV radiation reaching your skin, but it isn’t impenetrable. Most sunscreens filter out a significant percentage of UV rays but not 100%. That means tanning can still happen, just more slowly. This is why re-applying your sunscreen is so important. If avoiding a tan is your goal, the only truly effective solution is staying out of direct sun exposure entirely.

Myth #3: You only need to apply SPF once 

The effects of most sunscreens last only a few hours, which means re-application is non-negotiable. Add sweat, water, and drying off into the mix and the window gets even smaller. SPF should be re-applied every few hours throughout the day. Yes, even over your makeup. 

Expert tip: To reapply over makeup, opt for a lightweight sunscreen. Dispense a small amount onto the back of your hand, then use a brush or beauty blender to gently press and tap it into the skin.

Myth #4: You only need SPF when it’s sunny outside

This is where UVA rays come in. Remember, UVB rays, the ones that you feel, make up only 5% of the UV light that hits Earth. The other 95% are UVA rays, and they don’t care if it’s overcast or bright and sunny. UVA rays penetrate clouds, windows, even car windshields, which means your skin is being exposed even when you’re inside or it’s a cloudy day. Daily SPF is a year-round essential.

How to Apply Sunscreen Correctly

SPF should be applied roughly 15-30 minutes before you experience sun exposure and should be the last step of your skincare routine before makeup.