Get The Facts Right: 5 Myths People Are Telling You About UV Light

The chances are you’ve heard about UV light because of the dangers it possesses, especially if you’re spending a lot of time in the sun or tanning beds. There are plenty of dangers that have been proven over and over again, but unfortunately, this has also led to a lot of rumors and myths.

Today, we’re going to explore the myths and legends surrounding UV light, debunking them so you only know the facts and the truth about UV light and how it’s used in everyday life.

#1 – I Need UV Light for Vitamin D

True, vitamin D is essential for our well being and health, and it’s true that you need to expose your bare skin to the sunlight in order to create it naturally. However, many people use this as an excuse to get in the tanning beds for long periods of time.

This simply isn’t the case. You can get enough vitamin D to reach the recommended doses by going on a 10-30-minute walk three times a week in direct sunlight, and this is more than enough to give you everything you need.

#2 – Expensive Sunglasses are Better

There’s no denying the dangers that UV light can cause to your eyes if directly affected for too long, which is why it’s so important to wear sunglasses. However, while you may believe that expensive designer sunglasses are better, any sunglasses with the 100% UV protection sticker will do the job.

#3 – You Don’t Get Skin Cancer When You’re Young

One of the most important and proven researches into UV light is that excessive amounts of it can cause skin cancer, or at least dramatically increases your risk of obtaining it. This is very true, and it’s been proven time and time again.

However, there’s a common misconception that you can’t get skin cancer if you’re fit, young and healthy, as though you’re immune to it. This simply isn’t the case, and you’re still at risk of the dangers of excessive UV, regardless of how old you are.

#4 – UV Light Only Comes from the Sun

This simply isn’t true. While the vast majority of natural UV light will come from the sun, it can also be made artificially using a UV lamp. There are multiple reasons why this exists, just as the UV lights in tanning beds or for multiple purposes.

For example, a popular way to use a UV lamp is in water supplies and places like fish tanks and aquariums
because the UV lamp can help purify the water and improve the overall water condition to make it healthier for the life living inside it. They can also be used as air filters.

#5 – Sunscreen is Protecting You

This final point is only half true. While topical sunscreens are great at protecting you from UVB light, it’s not so effective when it comes to UVA light, the more dangerous of the two. It doesn’t even matter what kind of SPF you’re using.

Ideally, when it reaches the peak of the day, seek actual shaded areas and avoid being out in direct sunlight for too long in order to get the best protection results.

Summary

It’s safe to say there are plenty of misconceptions out there when it comes to UV light and how to protect yourself from it. The most important thing to remember is to stay safe and be mindful of what you’re doing to keep yourself happy and healthy.