Sunscreen Myths
Updated: September 26, 2026
At Beaut Academy we talk about skincare every day, and sunscreen is one of the topics that raises the most questions. Here are four common myths and what medical sources say.
Myth 1: "I only need it on sunny days." False. Even on cloudy days, up to 80% of the sun’s harmful UV rays can penetrate the clouds (American Academy of Dermatology, 2025).
Myth 2: "If my skin is dark, I don’t need sunscreen." False. Anyone can get skin cancer, regardless of age, gender or skin tone (American Academy of Dermatology, 2025).
Myth 3: "Applying it in the morning is enough." False. Outdoors, reapply about every two hours, and after swimming or sweating (American Academy of Dermatology, 2025; U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2026).
Myth 4: "Any sunscreen, in any amount, will do." Not quite. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a broad-spectrum sunscreen (it protects against UVA and UVB rays), SPF 30 or higher and water resistant. The FDA recommends regular use of broad-spectrum sunscreens with SPF 15 or higher. As for the amount, most adults need about 1 ounce, enough to fill a shot glass, to cover exposed skin, and at least a teaspoon for the face (American Academy of Dermatology, 2025; U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2026).
One more tip. The FDA recommends limiting time in the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. (U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 2026).
If this topic interests you, call the school at 864.603.8414 and ask.
References
American Academy of Dermatology. (2025, February 11). Sunscreen FAQs. https://www.aad.org/media/stats-sunscreen
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2026, September 10). Sunscreen: How to help protect your skin from the sun. https://www.fda.gov/drugs/understanding-over-counter-medicines/sunscreen-how-help-protect-your-skin-sun
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