These Are Virtually Useless Against Sunburn: A Freckled Redhead’s Struggle
A new study by the Cleveland Clinic reveals that using SPF makeup and umbrellas to shield yourself from the sun is ineffective. Researchers studied scores of people. They found that 78% that used a beach umbrella still ended up with a sunburn. 25% of study participants, who used SPF 100 sunscreen, also got sunburned.
Researcher Dr Amy Kassouf says, “Individuals tend to overestimate the amount of sun protection they are getting from sunscreen-infused makeup products and umbrellas. In reality, the shade of an umbrella is far less effective than sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF), while SPF in makeup probably isn’t enough to limit the harmful effects of the sun’s skin-burning ultraviolet (UV) rays. In the real world, individuals do not wear thick layers of makeup, so you’re more than likely not getting the full protection listed on the label. Apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and makeup with SPF 30. Together, they’ll add to the protection you need.”
I have always battled running from the sun because I spent many summers with blisters all over my body from the sun. Being a freckled redhead has its own unique charm. The vibrant red hair, the sprinkling of freckles across the face, and the pale skin make for an enchanting combination. However, there’s one major downside to this striking appearance – the constant battle against sunburn. Despite the countless attempts with beach umbrellas and SPF makeup, redheads like myself often find ourselves succumbing to the sun’s unforgiving rays. In this blog post, I will share my personal experiences and shed light on the challenges faced by freckled redheads when it comes to sun protection.
The Curse of Pale Skin: As a freckled redhead, my fair skin is a blessing and a curse. While it can be beautiful in its own right, it also means that my skin lacks the melanin that provides natural protection against the sun’s harmful UV rays. This deficiency puts me at a higher risk of sunburn, even on overcast or seemingly mild days. While some people can spend hours basking under the sun, I need to be constantly vigilant to avoid painful burns.
The Myth of Beach Umbrellas: Beach umbrellas, with their wide canopies and promises of shade, seem like the perfect solution for sun protection. However, for a redhead like myself, they often fall short of their intended purpose. The truth is that umbrellas only provide partial protection from the sun’s rays. UV radiation can still reflect off the sand, water, and other surfaces, making it easy to underestimate the potential harm. Many a time, I have found myself seeking refuge under the shade of an umbrella, only to discover later that my skin had still suffered from sunburn.
The SPF Makeup Fallacy: SPF makeup has gained popularity in recent years, with promises of both sun protection and flawless beauty. While it may offer some level of defense against the sun, it’s crucial to understand that the protection provided by makeup alone is minimal. To truly shield the skin from harmful UV rays, a dedicated sunscreen with a high SPF should be applied before any makeup. As a freckled redhead, I have learned the hard way that relying solely on SPF makeup is a recipe for sunburn disaster.
Finding Effective Solutions: Though the struggle against sunburn may seem daunting, there are ways to mitigate the risks. Here are a few strategies that have helped me on my quest for better sun protection:
- High SPF Sunscreen: Invest in a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF rating (SPF 30 or higher) and reapply it regularly, especially after swimming or sweating.
- Seek Shade: While beach umbrellas may not offer foolproof protection, they still provide some shade. Combine their limited coverage with other sources of shade like trees or sun shelters to maximize sun protection.
- Protective Clothing: Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing that covers the arms, legs, and other sun-sensitive areas. Look for clothing with a high Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) rating for added protection.
- Wide-brimmed Hats and Sunglasses: Protect your face, neck, and eyes by wearing a wide-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses. These accessories provide an additional layer of defense against the sun’s rays.
Being a freckled redhead comes with its fair share of challenges, particularly when it comes to sunburn. Despite the allure of beach umbrellas and the promises of SPF makeup, the truth is that they can only offer partial protection at best. To safeguard our delicate skin, it’s crucial for redheads and others with fair complexions to take proactive measures like using high SPF sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing and accessories.
– Maryann Morgan
