Skin Cancer Info

False!
Once you increase beyond SPF 50, the margin of sun protection becomes slimmer and slimmer. And if you’re using a sunscreen with a relatively high SPF, this should not correlate with an extended period of time in the sun. This is why Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare does not offer sunscreen beyond an SPF of 50, as this blocks between 97-98% of the sun’s UVB rays.

False!
If you combine SPF 30 with SPF 50, you’ll actually have the average – SPF 40. And using two SPFs is actually worse than applying the strongest on its own. You’re better off sticking to one of our Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare sunscreens and reapplying frequently – after swimming, towel drying, perspiration, etc.

False!
While freckles can look “cute”, they are a desperate cry for help from your skin. Those spots occur when your skin is saying, "I cannot tan fast enough to deal with all this sudden sun. I'll produce these brown spots as patchy protection. " If you freckle then you are getting too much sun.

False!
Dr. Dennis Gross highly recommends sticking to the shade, wearing protective clothing and a hat to avoid increased exposure.

False!
Everyone should be wearing sunscreen every day, 365 days of the year. Even if you’re inside, even if it’s cold, even if it doesn’t seem super sunny, your skin can still be at risk of damaging from sun exposure. Do the math: let’s say you're in the sun, without sunscreen, just 30 minutes a day running into stores, having brief conversations or grabbing lunch. That adds up to 45 hours of unprotected sun exposure after 3 months of summer. That’s like sitting on the beach in full sunlight for two and a half days. So whether it’s a lightweight sun cream, or even foundation with sunscreen in it, apply something every morning to be sure your skin is protected.

False!
Sunburns are never okay. Burning is the top risk factor for skin cancer because it damages the skin's DNA. Your tan should develop gradually — not all at once. In the beginning of summer, everyone is more fair and likely to burn. Increase your SPF number or avoid the sun to prevent burning.

False!
Skin merely turning pink in the sun indicates excess exposure. Dark red indicates a bad burn while pink is a less intense burn – but a burn nonetheless. Yes, the bar just got lower, but it’s for your own good. Your sunscreen level should be high enough to prevent pinkness.

True.
While there are three main types of skin cancer, melanoma is the most deadly. It's also often the easiest to detect — it’s multiple shades of tan, brown and/or black. The key to suspecting melanoma is when a growth with the above features appears to change. They grow to exceed the size of a pencil eraser and change shape, becoming more jagged at the edges. The sooner you identify and treat melanoma, the better your chances are of catching it before it can become life threatening.

False!
LOVE YOUR SUNSCREEN. You're less likely to use a sunscreen if you dislike its feel on your skin. But everyone can find a sunscreen they like, maybe even love. Choose an oil-free sunscreen if you have oily skin, a complexion problem or dislike heavy creams. Have dry skin? Creams or lotions are good for you. In other words – do your research, as your SPF could become your new favorite product in your skincare routine!

False!
All SPFs are not created equal, but the Lightweight Wrinkle Defense SPF was specifically formulated and tested on all skin tones looking for an oil-free, everyday sunscreen that can blend easily and build into makeup. Likewise, our Instant Radiance SPF40 works as a tinted foundation to easily blend into the skin, along with Dark Spot Sun Defense SPF50 for those wanting extra protection from forming brown spots.