3 SPF “FACTS” (THAT ARE ACTUALLY FICTION)

MYTH

MELANIN OFFERS NATURAL

PROTECTION AGAINST UV RAYS

Nope. Melanin alone is definitely not enough to protect you, says dermatologist Dr Saya Obayan. Studies suggest that the darkest skin tones may have a built-in SPF of up to around 13, explains dermatologist Dr Shani Francis. But that’s not even close to the recommended daily SPF30 or higher.

MYTH

YOU DON’T NEED SUNSCREEN

IF YOUR SKIN DOESN’T BURN

Just because you don’t turn red doesn’t mean that your skin isn’t being damaged. “UV rays can still mess with the genetic materials in your skin cells,” says Dr Obayan. If you get enough DNA damage, your cells can start to grow out of control, which can lead to cancer.

MYTH

“BLACK DON’T CRACK”

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but Black does crack – as in, it wrinkles – it just happens a little later than in other racial groups. If you want to invest in your future self’s skin (why wouldn’t you?), protecting yourself with daily SPF is the way to do it. “In time, UV damage breaks down collagen and elastin – the proteins that keep skin firm and smooth – leaving you with leathery-looking skin,” says Dr Obayan. And there’s also the hyperpigmentation thing. “Melasma, which causes large, shadowy skin patches, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (the dark marks and scars that linger post-breakout) are both common in people with more melanin in their skin – and they’re exacerbated by UV exposure,” says dermatologist Michelle Henry.