Fact or Fiction?

Fact or Fiction?

Having a “base tan” will protect my skin from getting a sunburn.

FICTION: A tan is the skin’s response to damage from UV radiation. When skin is exposed to the sun, it produces a brown pigment or colouring called Melanin. This colouring actually indicates skin damage and is the skin’s way of trying to block the sun’s damaging rays.

There is no need for sun protection on a cloudy day.

FICTION: Up to 80% of the sun’s UV rays can get through light cloud cover, haze and fog. Unprotected skin can be sunburned even on these cloudy days

Darker-skinned people get skin cancer (internal link) less often than fair-skinned people.

FACT: Skin cancer is most common in people with pale skin, light coloured eyes and hair and who burn easily. However, people with darker skin, who tan easily and rarely burn, can still develop cancer if they don’t take measures to protect their skin.

Tanning beds are a safe way to tan.

FICTION: The amount of UVA radiation emitted by sun beds can be 2-5 times greater than natural sunlight. If you are under 30 years old and use a sunbed more than 10 times a year, you have EIGHT TIMES the risk of getting Melanoma - the most dangerous form of skin cancer, compared to people who don’t use sun beds.

Sunless Tanning Lotions are safe and do not harm the skin.

FACT: Sunless tanning lotions work by temporarily staining the skin a darker colour. They do not cause permanent damage to the skin. However, it is important to know that these creams DO NOT protect the skin from sun damage. For best results, use the tanning lotion at night, then be sure to apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or more each morning before going outdoors.

Radiation from the sun can damage cells in the structures of your eyes.

FACT: UV radiation from the sun may increase the risk of getting cataracts later in life. This damage can be prevented by protecting your eyes with sunglasses and by wearing a hat with a wide brim when out in the sun

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