Tanned skin used to be a sign of lower class laborers. It wasn’t until fashion icon Coco Chanel acquired a tan in the 1920’s that it became a symbol of leisure and vitality, because, hey, if you could afford to lounge around in the sun during a time of financial unrest instead of working, you were doing pretty well for yourself.

Since then, scientific research has proven that sun exposure can cause long-term skin damage. While this doesn’t mean your next home should be underground, it’s important to learn the facts about protecting yourself this summer. In this newsletter, discover the truth about some sun protection myths. Learn why a physical blocker like Titanium Dioxide is the best sunscreen ingredient. And see how you feel after trying out our remedies after a hard day at the beach.

Before you hit the beach, here’s a look at some of the misconceptions, and reasoning, behind a few of the most popular sun care “facts.”

MYTH: The Higher the SPF, the Better the Protection
FACT: A high SPF may offer better sun protection, but once you go beyond SPF 30, this difference is actually very small. In fact, the FDA does not legally authorize any product that claims a higher protection than SPF 30. A better bet is to find a good sunscreen that contains an SPF of at least 15 and has broad-spectrum protection, then re-apply it regularly while in the sun.

MYTH: Use a Sunscreen Every Day
FACT: Although we’ve all been advised to slather on sunblock and cover ourselves head to foot when we go outside, some exposure to the sun is okay. A little goes a long way though, so incorporating a light, daily sunscreen into your skincare regimen is important. Just don’t go overboard loading yourself up with products, especially during winter months and in colder climate zones.

MYTH: Products that Contain AHA Cause you to Burn
FACT: Although AHA is great at removing the top layer of dead skin cells for a smoother, fresher appearance, these dead cells also act as a protective cover to healthy, new cells underneath. Because the new cells are more sensitive and susceptible to sunburns, it’s important to keep exfoliated skin well-protected. Exfoliating your skin actually promotes a more even tan later on, but make sure to wait a few days before you catch some rays.

MYTH: Tanning Clears up Acne
FACT: Tanning can camouflage redness and temporarily tighten pores, but sun exposure actually darkens existing scars and blemishes. Some ingredients in acne medications also increase skin’s sensitivity, making sunburns more likely. If you have acne-prone skin, tanning may lead to greater eruptions and further damage down the line.

It’s the first weekend of hot weather and after a day spent outside, your skin feels tight and as dry as the Sahara. No amount of protection is going to help you avoid this end-of-the-day scenario, but there are some steps you can take to help relieve and revitalize sun-weary skin.

1. Moisturizing after you’ve been in the sun doesn’t reduce redness or stop subsequent peeling, but applying a lotion containing aloe, Allantoin and antioxidants can relieve discomfort and itching. Keep it light with an oil-free, non-greasy formula, like that found in Advanced Face Lotion, and stay away from thick creams that block pores and trap heat in the skin.

2. Wash salt or chlorinated water from your skin as soon as possible. Pool chemicals are especially harsh and can cause serious skin irritation. Treat sun-damaged hair by washing it with a small amount of Daily Shampoo and following with a hydrating conditioner.

3. Take the spots out of your eyes by placing a cool cloth or Eye Gel Mask over them for a few minutes. Even if you wear sunglasses, prolonged glare from water and sand can cause eye strain and irritation.

4. If worst comes to worst and you’re as red as a lobster by the end of the day, try taking a bath with cool water and adding a few ounces of baking soda, oatmeal or chamomile to the tub. This won’t repair the damage, but each of these ingredients can reduce the discomfort of sunburn. Use a cold compress, such as a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a hand towel, to target particularly painful spots, and check regularly for signs of blistering. Contact a doctor if you feel feverish.