When it comes to sun protection, there’s no shortage of myths. From thinking SPF 50 is three times stronger than SPF 15, to believing makeup with SPF is enough, it’s easy to get confused. The truth is, protecting your skin is simpler than you think once you understand how SPF actually works.
Let’s break down the most common myths and separate fact from fiction.
Myth 1: SPF 50 gives triple the protection of SPF 15
Fact: SPF doesn’t scale the way most people think. SPF 15 filters out about 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97%, and SPF 50 blocks around 98%. The difference between SPF 15 and SPF 50 is much smaller than expected. What really matters is applying enough product and reapplying often.
Myth 2: A morning application will last all day
Fact: Sunscreen wears off. Sweat, swimming, and even just touching your skin reduces its effectiveness. To stay protected, reapply every two hours — regardless of the number on the bottle.
Myth 3: You only need sunscreen on sunny days
Fact: Up to 80% of UV rays can still pass through clouds. That’s why dermatologists recommend daily SPF, rain or shine, summer or winter.
Myth 4: A base tan protects you from burning
Fact: A tan is a sign of skin damage. While it may slightly reduce your risk of immediate burning, the protection is minimal — about the equivalent of SPF 2 or 3. It does nothing to prevent long-term damage like premature ageing or skin cancer.
Myth 5: Darker skin doesn’t need sunscreen
Fact: While melanin offers some natural protection, it doesn’t prevent all UV damage. Darker skin tones can still experience premature ageing, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer — often diagnosed later because of this myth. Daily SPF benefits every skin type and tone.
Myth 6: Makeup with SPF is enough
Fact: Unless you’re applying a very thick layer of foundation or powder (much more than most people wear), you won’t get the level of protection on the label. Makeup with SPF can be a helpful bonus, but it shouldn’t replace your sunscreen or SPF moisturiser.
Myth 7: Sunscreen is bad for your skin
Fact: Modern sunscreens are designed to protect without irritation. Mineral-based options, like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, are especially gentle and effective. At MISMO, we’ve formulated our SPFs to not only defend against UV damage but also hydrate and support healthy skin.
Sunscreen is one of the simplest, most effective ways to protect your skin from premature ageing and long-term damage. But it only works if you use enough, apply it correctly, and reapply throughout the day.
At MISMO, we make it easy to keep your skin protected every day:
-
SPF 15 Moisturiser – Lightweight hydration with built-in sun protection, perfect for daily use.
-
Tinted Mineral SPF 50 – Broad-spectrum mineral protection with a natural tint that evens skin tone.
Leave a comment