9 sunburn myths

The summer holidays are in full swing, and many of us are jetting off on our holidays or making the most of the UK sun. While you’re living your best life in the sun, it’s really important to protect yourself.
 
And you know, nothing says a Brit a holiday like lobster red shoulders and tan lines! Here’s nine sunburn myths and how to look after your skin.
 
Myth: You won’t burn in the shade
 
Sorry to break it to you, but you can. UV radiation reflects off nearby surfaces and can cause you to burn. According the World Health Organisation, even the most seemingly benign surfaces can increase your chances of burning. For example, sea foam reflects 25 percent of UV radiation, sand reflects 15 percent.
 
Myth: It’s OK to tan as long as you don’t burn
 
Although having a tan is known to make you look like you have a health glow, that bronzed skin is actually sun damage. It’s very sad but St Tropez is here to get us through the pale times!
 
Myth: You can’t get a sunburn when it’s cloudy
 
Not only can you still burn, it might be even worse than when it isn’t cloudy. We’re often more relaxed about applying sun cream when we can’t see the sun but 80% of the sun’s rays can pass through clouds according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. So, keep your cream topped up!
 
Myth: If you have dark skin, you don’t need sun cream
 
Basically, if you have skin, you can get sunburn. A naturally higher level of the pigment melanin does offer some protection from the sun, but it doesn’t mean that sun damage isn’t happening.
 
Myth: The first sign of a sunburn is pink skin
 
Pink skin is an obvious early sign but believe it’s not always the earliest sign. Look out for itching, skin tenderness, tightness and your skin turning white when you press it. If you notice any of the above, apply some sun cream, grab a glass of water and try to get out of the sun for a bit.
 
Myth: A higher SPF won’t provide greater protection for longer
 
The higher the SPF rating, the better the protection, not the longer the protection. You still need to make sure you are regularly reapplying sun cream.
 
Myth: Foods like tomatoes and strawberries will prevent sunburn
 
Strawberries contain vitamin C and tannins, which are beneficial to sun protection, and tomatoes contain lycopene, which is known to protect the skin from UV damage, but they shouldn’t be used as a replacement to sunscreen.
 
Myth: You will only burn between 10am and 2pm
 
While the sun’s rays are strongest during that window, burns can also happen earlier and later. So, if you’re out and so is the sun, you should protect yourself with sunscreen.
 
Myth: If you get a sunburn, look after it
 
After sun, aloe vera gel and cover-ups will be your best friends here. You only get one skin, so look after it.