The Truth About Sunscreen: 6 Common Myths You Should Stop Believing

Many people think sunscreen is only needed for beaches or summer vacations. But skin experts say this is one of the biggest skincare mistakes. Sunscreen is not just for sunny days — it is something everyone should use daily to protect their skin from the sun’s harmful rays. It helps prevent early ageing, sunburn, wrinkles, and even skin cancer.

However, there are still many myths and wrong beliefs about sunscreen that make people skip it. To clear the confusion, cosmetologist and aesthetic physician Dr. Karuna Malhotra, founder of Cosmetic Skin and Homeo Clinic, explained the truth behind six of the most common myths.

Myth 1: Higher SPF means better protection

Fact: Many believe that the higher the SPF, the better the sunscreen. Dr. Malhotra explains that SPF only measures protection from UVB rays, which cause sunburn, but not from UVA rays, which cause ageing and skin damage. “It’s best to use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects from both UVA and UVB,” she says.

Myth 2: People with dark skin don’t need sunscreen

Fact: Some think dark skin doesn’t need SPF because melanin offers protection. But Dr. Malhotra warns this is not true. “Melanin cannot stop UVA rays, which cause wrinkles and premature ageing,” she explains. People with darker skin tones still need full-spectrum sunscreen to avoid long-term damage.

Myth 3: You can skip sunscreen on cloudy days

Fact: Even when the sky is grey, up to 80% of UV rays can reach your skin. Dr. Malhotra says, “Sun damage can happen on cloudy or rainy days too. No matter what the weather, sunscreen must be worn daily.”

Myth 4: Sunscreen lasts all day after one application

Fact: Sunscreen does not protect forever. “It breaks down under sunlight,” says Dr. Malhotra. “You must reapply every 2–4 hours to stay protected, especially if you sweat or go outside often.”

Myth 5: Sunscreen is waterproof

Fact: “No sunscreen is 100% waterproof,” the doctor explains. Even though some are labeled “water-resistant,” they lose strength after swimming or sweating. “Always reapply after getting wet,” she adds. To make it more effective, apply it 10–15 minutes before entering the water.

Myth 6: Sunscreen isn’t needed in winter

Fact: Cold weather may feel safe, but the sun’s rays are still strong. “Even in winter, 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds and fog,” Dr. Malhotra warns. They can cause tanning, pigmentation, and early signs of ageing. Snow and glass also reflect sunlight, which increases skin exposure. So sunscreen is essential all year round.

The real truth: Sunscreen is your skin’s best friend

Understanding the truth about sunscreen helps people protect their skin better. Dr. Malhotra says sunscreen alone cannot give total safety, so people should also take other precautions — like wearing protective clothing, staying in the shade, and avoiding the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

In short, sunscreen is not just a beauty product — it is a daily shield for your skin. Whether it’s summer or winter, sunny or cloudy, using sunscreen every day is the simplest way to keep your skin healthy and youthful for years to come.