There’s something unmistakable about the sweet anticipation of summer—the longer days, the rising temps and that first nostalgic whiff of Banana Boat wafting off sun-warmed skin. It clings to beach towels, lingers on shoulders and somehow signals that the season has officially arrived.  

But while sunscreen has come a long way in texture, formation and branding, the misinformation around it hasn’t evolved nearly as much. In 2025, many people still hold to outdated advice, marketing myths, influencer opinions and plain old misunderstandings about how sunscreen works and what it truly protects you from. 

So, let’s clear the air, and your bathroom cabinet. From SPF numbers that don’t mean what you think to common excuses that miss the science entirely, here’s what most people still get wrong about sunscreen—and what you can do about it. 

Myth #1: Higher SPF means unlimited protection

Reality: SPF 100 isn’t twice as strong as SPF 50; it just lasts slightly longer. SPF measures how much UVB radiation is filtered, not how long you’re protected. The difference between SPF 30 (blocks ~97% of UVB rays) and SPF 100 (~99%) is minimal. No sunscreen blocks 100% of rays and none last all day. Reapplication every 2 hours (or after swimming or sweating) matters far more than choosing the highest number on the shelf.

Myth #2: You don’t need sunscreen if you’re indoors

Reality: Just because you’re not outside doesn’t mean your skin is off the hook. UV exposure doesn’t stop at the front door—especially if you spend time near windows or behind the wheel. UVA rays, which cause long-term aging and collagen breakdown, pass easily through glass and silently contribute to skin damage over time.

Need proof? Take a good look at the back of your hands or the left side of your face. See those sunspots (and maybe even fine lines and uneven tone too)? You might’ve picked those up while driving. Glass blocks UVB rays (the ones that burn, but UVA rays, responsible for aging, sail right through. Indoors or in traffic, daily sunscreen isn’t just protection, it’s preservation.

Myth #3: You only need sunscreen when it’s sunny

Reality: UV rays don’t check the weather app. Up to 80% of UV radiation still penetrates cloud cover, meaning overcast days can quietly deliver just as much damage as a sunny one. And that’s exactly when most people skip SPF, because they feel safe. Daily use, rain or shine, is your best defense.

Myth #4: A base tan protects you

Reality: There’s no such thing as a safe tan. A tan is your skin’s distress signal, an inflammatory response to UV damage. And while melanin offers some built-in defense (about the equivalent of SPF 3 or 4), it’s nowhere near enough to prevent long-term harm. 

Yes, we’ve come a long way from the days of baby oil sunbathing and 20-minute tanning bed sessions under purple bulbs, but the mindset that “a little color is healthy” still lingers. A base tan doesn’t protect your skin; it just delays the visible damage. The truth is that every tan is a sign that your skin is fighting to defend itself. That golden glow? It’s inflammation not wellness. 

Myth #5: Chemical sunscreens are toxic

Reality: Chemical vs. mineral sunscreens come down to personal preference and skin sensitivity, not safety. While certain ingredients like oxybenzone have sparked concern, the data remains inconclusive at the exposure levels found in consumer products. What is dangerous? Skipping sunscreen altogether. If you’re worried, opt for mineral blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, but don’t let fear cancel out sun protection.

Myth #6: Darker skin tones don’t need sunscreen

Reality: Melanin offers some natural protection, but it doesn’t make anyone immune to UV damage. Skin cancer may be less common in darker skin tones, but when it does occur, it’s often detected later and at a more advanced stage. Sunscreen isn’t just about preventing cancer—it’s also about preserving skin quality, tone and texture across all skin types.

Myth #7: Sunscreen is all you need

Reality: Sunscreen is just one part of a broader sun safety strategy. Protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses and seeking shade during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) all play a role.

There’s no rewind button for your skin. Without sunscreen, you’re accelerating signs of aging and risking cancer development every single day, even if you don’t burn. Sun damage is cumulative. But the good news? It’s also preventable. Come see us for personalized sun protection guidance and skincare that supports your skin for the long run. 
Contact THE CENTER for Advanced Dermatology at 602-867-7546 or WEBSITE.