|
|
|
|
 |
Email
|
Prevent Sunburn and Skin Cancer
8 Sun Safety Myths Debunked
Burn-proof your summer workout by learning the truth about base tans, SPF, and the best gear for outdoor exercise
By
-
Don’t Get Burned
-
1
Myth: A base tan protects against sunburn.
-
2
Myth: I don’t need sunscreen in the morning.
-
3
Myth: I wear SPF 70. I have nothing to worry about.
-
4
Myth: Water-resistant means waterproof.
-
5
Myth: A hat protects my head and face.
-
6
Myth: Light-colored clothing blocks sun best.
-
7
Myth: My race shields me from skin cancer.
-
8
Myth: I need direct sunlight for vitamin D.
Myth: A base tan protects against sunburn.
You hit the pavement with pasty white skin on the hottest, sunniest day of the year and feel more than muscle burn by the time you wrap up. To prevent blistering sunburns, you hit the tanning bed and gradually build up a base.
The Truth: Tanning does very little to shield you from sunburn. A suntan generated by ultraviolet light provides a sun protection factor (SPF) of 2 to 3 for people with light to medium skin tones, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation. Imagine buying a bottle of sunscreen labeled SPF 2!
Base tans also don't protect against sun damage, which happens at the cellular level, says Vilma Cokkinides, PhD, a cancer prevention epidemiologist with the American Cancer Society. Sun exposure causes changes in skin cells' DNA, and these genetic mutations can turn into cancer over time, she explains.
More From
Related Content
Advertisement
There's More on Twitter!
Get up-to-the-minute tips on fitness, healthy eating, weight loss and more
Must-see on MSN
