Debunking Myths Around Sunscreen

We frequently receive questions about sunscreen, as consumer understanding of sun protection is often clouded by misinformation. With the abundance of conflicting advice online, it can be difficult to discern fact from fiction. Outdated beliefs about sunscreen use continue to undermine effective protection, contributing to increased UV damage, genetic and cellular harm, premature skin aging, and a heightened risk of skin cancer.

At MARIE VERONIQUE, we are deeply committed to skin health and to addressing the harmful effects of sun exposure. Our mission is to dispel common myths about sunscreen and challenge long-standing misconceptions, many of which persist despite significant advancements in research on UV radiation, high-energy visible (HEV) light, and post-exposure DNA damage.

Our newest product, COLORFREE Zinc Sunscreen SPF 32, was developed to offer the safest, most comprehensive sun protection available. Just as importantly, we prioritize transparency in an effort to remain a trustworthy source of not only products but also education. In the sections that follow, we aim to clear up widespread misunderstandings and promote more effective sun protection strategies to support long-term skin health.

Myth #1: Sunscreen is only necessary for sunny days, when you are exposed to direct sunlight (beach or time spent outdoors).  
Consider This: Sunscreen is your biggest opportunity to age-protect your skin, that is protect it from genomic instability aka DNA damage, that causes premature skin aging. Our new understanding of aging is that most skin aging, up to 97%, is caused by the sun. In the twelve hallmarks of aging, genomic instability is listed as the number one cause of aging. Skin gets most of its DNA damage from sun exposure. Sun exposure = premature skin aging.

UVA rays penetrate clouds and windows. Damage happens indoors and on overcast days. Prevention is your one opportunity–once the damage is done it doesn’t go away. Solution: wear sunscreen every day, winter as well as summer, whether you’re indoors or outside.

Myth #2: Blue light from screens doesn’t affect your skin.
Consider This: HEV (blue light) contributes to oxidative stress, collagen breakdown, and hyperpigmentation. 

Our latest innovation COLORFREE Zinc Sunscreen SPF 32 contains blue light blocking agents and antioxidants to neutralize damage from digital exposure. It contains SPIRULINA MAXIMA EXTRACT — an algae extract that performs a dual function, acting as a free radical scavenger and shielding skin from the damaging effects of blue light. It also contains the potent enzyme photolyase, which helps repair UV damage through photoreactivation. This, in turn, helps prevent cellular damage from CPDs.

Myth #3: Sunscreen is just about sunburn prevention.
Consider This: DNA damage from UV is the root cause of premature aging and skin cancer. ColorFree Zinc is formulated with active ingredients that target five hallmarks of aging, not just UV protection. Let’s not forget that most aging damage comes from the longer wavelengths of light, UVA and into the visible light spectrum. SPF is about protection from shorter wavelengths of light in the UVB range. This damage shows up soon as a burn. UVA light damage shows up years later as wrinkles, sun spots and skin cancer. Think UVB = burning, UVA = aging.  

Myth #4: UV damage stops when you’re out of the sun.
Consider This: “Dark” CPDs (cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers*) continue forming after sun exposure, even in the dark. ColorFree Zinc contains unique nighttime repair ingredients (like photolyase enzymes) to target CPD formation post-sun.

*Cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) refer to harmful changes in DNA which can disrupt normal cell function, potentially leading to skin aging and other unwanted skin conditions. CPDs are caused by UV radiation + exposure, and can occur up to 3 hours after sun exposure.

Myth #5:  If you apply sunscreen in the morning, you’re good for the whole day.
Consider This: Sweat, water, and time all wear down sunscreen, no matter the type. But chemical-based SPFs begin to degrade quickly, reducing efficacy which is why you need to reapply these types every two hours. However, not all sunscreens break down the same way. Mineral sunscreens formulated with zinc oxide only, like ColorFree Zinc, form a physical and longer-lasting barrier on the skin that is more stable over time. Still, if your sunscreen has been rubbed off or washed off, it’s important to reapply. If you’re not actively in the sun, reapplying is still doing your skin a favor as UV rays can still reach you through windows or on cloudy days, and regular reapplication helps maintain consistent protection throughout the day.

Myth #6: Chemical sunscreens are more effective and just as safe as mineral ones. Consider This: Chemical filters like oxybenzone are proven to disrupt hormones, lead to skin sensitivity, and harm our oceans and marine life. ColorFree Zinc contains non-nano zinc oxide only, which is safe for humans and the planet, for long-term daily use.

Myth #7: Mineral sunscreens with titanium dioxide are a good choice if you want a mineral sunscreen.
Consider This: Mineral sunscreens containing titanium dioxide can generate free radicals, especially in combination with chloride in a swimming pool. The safest mineral sunscreen is zinc oxide-only.

Myth #8: Nano and non-nano zinc oxide offer the same safety and efficacy.
Consider This: While both forms of zinc oxide provide broad-spectrum UV protection, nano-sized particles can penetrate the skin barrier under certain conditions and raise concerns regarding systemic absorption and cytotoxicity. Studies suggest that nano zinc particles may interact differently with cellular components, potentially generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) under UV exposure.

ColorFree Zinc uses non-nano zinc oxide-only to ensure that particles remain on the skin’s surface, where they effectively reflect and scatter UV radiation without risking dermal penetration or systemic exposure. This maximizes safety, especially for sensitive, compromised, or pediatric skin.

Myth #9: Heavily pigmented or melanated skin doesn’t need sunscreen.
Consider This: Melanin offers some protection, but not immunity—skin cancer, pigmentation issues, and aging still occur. ColorFree Zinc applies transparently on all skin tones and leaves no white cast.

Myth #10: Sunscreen is enough on its own.
Consider This: Sunscreen is essential, but the best results come from a multifaceted approach: hats, shade, timing, and reapplication. Practice safe sun behavior.

Targeted Ingredients to Counter Impacts of Sun Damage

Additionally, by implementing a strategic home care regimen that covers fundamentals of skin health, you can counter the detrimental impacts of sun damage to the skin system as well as build more resilient skin. This involves using targeted ingredients that support skin structure, repair mechanisms, and barrier function. Key nutrients include:

• Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): Helps repair cellular and mitochondrial DNA damage caused by UV exposure, strengthens the skin barrier, reduces inflammation, and improves skin tone and texture.
• Antioxidants like Vitamin C and Astaxanthin: Vitamin C helps neutralize free radicals generated by UV radiation, supports collagen synthesis, and brightens the skin. Astaxanthin, a powerful carotenoid, protects cells from oxidative stress and supports skin elasticity. Additionally, it acts as a senomorph modulating the behavior of senescent cells, often reducing their harmful secretions (the SASP: senescence-associated secretory phenotype) without killing them.
• Retinol (Vitamin A): Regulates cell turnover, improves sun spots and hyperpigmentation, and promotes collagen production, making it a gold standard for addressing signs of photoaging.
• Lipids (e.g., ceramides, fatty acids): Essential for maintaining a strong, healthy skin barrier that defends against environmental damage, including inflammation and pollutant infiltration, both of which can worsen UV-induced stress.

Below you’ll find our recommended regimen that helps protect skin from sun and light exposure, and defend against premature skin aging and other skin conditions.

AM
Pre + Probiotic Daily Mist
Soothing B3 Serum
Vitamins C+E+Ferulic Serum
Protective Day Oil
ColorFree Zinc Sunscreen SPF 32

PM
Pure + E.O. Free Oil Cleanser
Balancing HypoTonic
Soothing B3 Serum
Rejuvenating Night Oil / Extra Healing
Multi-Retinol Night Emulsion

Conclusion

As we've explained above, many common beliefs about sunscreen are based on outdated information that doesn’t reflect what we now know about skin aging, DNA damage, and the full spectrum of light exposure. We know that sunscreen isn’t just for sunny days; it’s a tool for daily skin support. It's not only about preventing sunburn, but about contributing to long-term skin health by addressing deeper forms of damage that accumulate over time. And while sunscreen is essential, it’s most effective when used alongside other lifestyle habits, like regular reapplication, physical coverage, and using strategic skincare products that help repair and strengthen the skin.

Our goal at Marie Veronique is to make products and deliver education so that you can make informed decisions. COLORFREE Zinc Sunscreen SPF 32 was created with these principles in mind: broad-spectrum, zinc oxide-based protection that’s safe enough for our children and the planet, effective, and thoughtfully formulated to support skin of all tones and types.

Any topic discussed in this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have a medical concern, please check with your doctor.