When it comes to skincare, few things are surrounded by more confusion than SPF myths. From thinking sunscreen is only for oyinbo skin to believing you only need it during Harmattan, these misconceptions are everywhere. The truth is, sunscreen is not just another beauty product, it is a daily essential that protects your skin from premature aging, sunburn, and even skin cancer. If you have ever skipped applying sunscreen because of something you heard from a friend or saw online, this article will clear things up once and for all.
Sunscreen is not just for white skin
One of the biggest SPF myths in Nigeria is that melanin is enough protection. Yes, darker skin has more natural protection than lighter skin, but that does not mean it is immune to UV damage. Prolonged sun exposure without protection still causes hyperpigmentation, uneven skin tone, sunburn, and even increases the risk of skin cancer.
A lot of people only take sunscreen seriously when traveling abroad, but Nigerian sun is no joke. From Abuja heat to Lagos traffic under the blazing sun, your skin is constantly exposed. Sunscreen is not about color, it is about protection.
You only need sunscreen during sunny weather
This is another popular misconception. Many people believe sunscreen is unnecessary when it is cloudy or during rainy season. But here is the truth, up to 80% of UV rays can still pass through clouds. That means even on dull, grey days, your skin is still exposed to harmful radiation.
Think about all the times you have been outdoors and gotten a tan even when the sun was not visible. That is exactly why dermatologists recommend using sunscreen daily, not just when the sky is clear.
SPF myths about skin darkening
A lot of people avoid sunscreen because they think it will make them darker. This is one of those SPF myths that refuses to die. What actually happens is that some sunscreens may leave a white cast or look oily if they are not formulated for your skin type. This has nothing to do with making you darker.
In fact, sunscreen helps prevent the very things people complain about, like dark spots, hyperpigmentation, and uneven tone caused by sun exposure. If you pick a sunscreen that blends well with your skin, you will not experience any unwanted changes.
You do not need sunscreen indoors
Spending the whole day indoors does not mean you are completely safe from the sun. Unless your home or office has no windows, UV rays can still get through glass. While glass can block UVB rays that cause burning, it does not fully block UVA rays, which cause aging and long-term skin damage.
So if you spend hours near a window, driving around town, or sitting by a sunny balcony, you are still exposed. Using sunscreen indoors may sound unnecessary, but it is one of the smartest skincare habits to adopt.
Higher SPF does not mean all-day protection
SPF 50 or SPF 70 does not mean you can apply once in the morning and forget about it. This is one of the most misleading SPF myths. Higher SPF gives you stronger protection against UV rays, but no sunscreen lasts the entire day.
Sweat, touching your face, outdoor activities, and even just time itself reduce sunscreen effectiveness. The golden rule is to reapply every 2 to 3 hours if you are outdoors, and at least once if you are spending most of your day indoors.
Sunscreen is not just for women
In Nigeria, skincare often gets marketed more to women, making men think sunscreen is not for them. But the sun does not care about gender. Men also experience hyperpigmentation, sunburn, and premature aging.
From construction workers under the sun to guys who enjoy weekend football matches, everyone is exposed. Adding sunscreen to your routine is not vanity; it is basic self-care.
Sunscreen is too expensive to use daily
Some people avoid sunscreen because they assume it is too pricey. But let’s be honest, treating sun damage is far more expensive than preventing it. Correcting dark spots, chemical peels, and anti-aging treatments cost a lot more than simply applying sunscreen every morning.
Today, there are many affordable sunscreen options in Nigeria that fit different budgets without compromising on quality. Protecting your skin now saves you money later.
Recommended sunscreens available at Perona Beauty Store
B Lab Matcha Hydrating Real Sun Screen SPF50+ PA++++
Rohto Skin Aqua UV Super Moisture Gel Pump 140g SPF50
Nivea Sun Protect Water Gel SPF 50 PA+++ 140g
La Roche Posay UVMune 400 Invisible Fluid SPF50+ 50ml
Uncover Aloe Invisible Sunscreen SPF 50 | 80ml
At Perona Beauty Store, we’ve stocked up on sunscreens that Nigerian customers love and trust. These options make it easy to avoid SPF myths and start protecting your skin the right way:
The bottom line
SPF myths are everywhere, but your skin deserves the truth. Sunscreen is not optional; it is essential for everyone, regardless of your age, gender, or complexion. It does not matter if it is rainy or sunny; whether you are indoors or outdoors, sunscreen is your first defense against sun damage.The next time you are tempted to skip applying, remember this: your skin will thank you tomorrow for the protection you give it today.
