1. I don't need sunscreen on a cloudy day - FALSE!

Even though the sun is hidden behind the clouds, UV rays can still reach your skin and cause damage. In fact, up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through the clouds. That's why you should always apply sunscreen, whether it's sunny or cloudy.

2. Sunscreen prevents the body from producing vitamin D - PARTIALLY TRUE!

While sunscreen can block some UVB rays responsible for vitamin D production, you don't need to skip sunscreen to get enough vitamin D. According to the Danish Cancer Society, there is no evidence that sunscreen use is linked to poorer vitamin D status. You will still produce vitamin D, just at a slightly slower rate. If you're concerned about vitamin D deficiency, you can always consult a doctor or nutrition expert.

3. Sunscreen is only necessary at the beach or in sunny areas - FALSE!

UV rays are present year-round, even on cloudy days and in urban environments. Wherever you are, sunscreen should be a daily part of your skincare routine to protect your skin from damage caused by UV rays. Remember that UV rays can also penetrate through windows and affect your skin when indoors.

4. The higher the SPF, the better - PARTIALLY TRUE!

While a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is important, it's not the only factor to consider. It's also crucial to apply an adequate amount of sunscreen, reapply regularly, and protect your skin with clothing and shade. Keep in mind that SPF doesn't indicate the total protection time but rather extends the time you can be in the sun without getting burned. The SPF you should use depends on your skin type, location, and the time of day. If you have sensitive and fair skin, several dermatologists recommend using SPF 50. The Danish Cancer Society suggests using SPF 15 or 30 in Denmark, but if you're heading farther south, it should be at least SPF 30. Additionally, it's a good idea to use a higher SPF if you plan to sunbathe during midday when the sun is strongest.

5. Sunscreen can't expire - FALSE!

Unfortunately, sunscreen can indeed expire. Like all skincare products, there is an expiration date where the ingredients no longer have the desired effect. This is incredibly important to keep in mind when it comes to sunscreen. The UV-filtering ingredients that actually protect your skin can lose their effectiveness if the cream is too old. Always discard your sunscreen if it smells different, changes color, or its consistency has altered – when in doubt, buy a new one. The risk of your sunscreen going bad is highest if it's stored too hot for too long (e.g., at the beach), so consider placing it in a cooler where your refreshments are.

6. All sunscreens are the same - FALSE!

Not all sunscreens are created equal. Choose sunscreen that is dermatologically tested and offers broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB rays. Broad-spectrum protection ensures that your skin is shielded from both the short and the long UV wavelengths. Pay attention to the ingredients and select a sunscreen that is gentle and safe for your skin. For example, many sunscreens contain the substance 4-MBC, which acts as a UV filter. This substance is suspected of being hormone-disrupting and is especially not recommended for pregnant women, nursing mothers, and children. Products labeled with the Nordic Swan Ecolabel must not contain this substance, so look for the right certifications.

At MUMS WITH LOVE, we are proud to offer dermatologically tested and reef-friendly sunscreen. Our sunscreen effectively protects your skin from harmful UVA and UVB rays and is free from harmful ingredients. We use pure and safe ingredients that are gentle even on the most sensitive skin. Buy the products here.

Protect your skin, preserve the beauty of nature, and enjoy the sun with confidence.