The myths, or not, about our summer

Here are 20 but what is fact and what is fiction?

• YOU can’t tan wearing sunscreen?

Myth. Most sunscreens contain SPF factor, which allows you to tan whilst being protected from harmful UV rays.

• This year has been the longest heatwave in UK history?

Myth. The longest heatwave in UK history was in 1976, which lasted 22 days. This year’s heatwave started on July 6, making it 15 days so far.

• The sun can bleach your hair?

True. If the hair is exposed to sunlight for too long, it can develop a straw-like texture that differs from its natural colour.

• You can get sunburnt within 15 minutes?

True. While it largely depends on the individual, a fair-skinned person can burn well within this.

• Wearing cotton is cooler than wearing polyester?

True. Cotton is a conductor of heat and draws heat away from your skin. It also absorbs body moisture.

• All beverages hydrate?

Myth. Coffee, tea, soft drinks and alcoholic beverages contain toxins that are eliminated from the body in urine and sweat.

• You need to drink eight glasses of water a day?

Myth. There is no scientific evidence to support this, as water consumption depends on age, body size and activity levels.

• You can drink too much water?

True. Drinking too much water can lead to a condition called water intoxication, which can result from the dilution of sodium in the body.

• Most people don’t apply enough sunscreen?

True. More than half of Britons are reported to not wear enough sunscreen, leading to a rise in malignant melanoma cancer.

•  Tanning provides the body with vitamin D?

True. Being in the sun raises levels of vitamin D, because the vitamin is produced when our skin absorbs the sun.

•  The sun only damages skin when it burns?

Myth. Getting a tan is still your body’s way of protecting itself by producing more melanin.

Burning is worse, but all forms of sun exposure can damage skin.

• Exercising in the summer makes you fitter?

True. Although dehydration is a serious risk and it is only recommended for very fit adults, the heat can increase the strenuousness of a workout, leading to higher fitness levels.

•  Dark clothes makes you hot?

Myth. Contrary to popular belief, dark clothes are better suited to keeping us cool than white clothes. Light, black clothes help absorb light away from the body.

•  You can’t get sunburnt through the water?

Myth. Shallow waters offer no protection at all and reflections from the water can enhance UV rays. Whilst in the water, UV rays can still travel through the water