Is it true that you tan/burn MORE under water, and if it is, is there any real explanation except stories?

Question

oh thx medium dave:D

Answer 1

surely its because the light is refracted its more likely to burn you. its the same effect as focusing sun light through a magnifying glass the intensity of U.V rays increases making it hotter than normal.

Answer 2

you definitly 'burn' more 'in' water than on the beach --- maybe something to do with washing off sunscreen in salt water.

never heard anyone getting a tan or burn under water.

Answer 3

Water droplets - yes, perfectly true. Actually underwater - no, for the reasons you stated.

Droplets act like miniature magnifying glasses, due to their convex shape.

All us boys know what sunlight+magnifying glasses can to to ants... Sunlight+droplets can do the same to your skin.

Answer 4

The UV light is refracted and reflected as you stated. That part is correct.

However i think its a bit of an urban legend, the water probably washes of sun protection cream making people think the water intensifies the light where the reality is that it just removes their sun cream.

Answer 5

You will burn less under water as the water absorbs ALL the light waves eventually. Go deep in the oceans, how many plants do you see? When you are out of the water and wet, the water affects your skin and its toughness, and yes the water droplets act like magnifying glasses or lenses.  Mostly the water affects your skin in the same way some medicines will cause you to burn quicker in the sun wet or not. The skin is soften by the water and becomes sensitive. Put on Baby oil or any thing that does not absorb the UV rays, to soften your skin and you will burn more. If you are truly Under the water you will burn less if at all, Around the water and out of it, the water reflects a bunch of UV rays back to you like a mirror and you will burn even if the Sun is not hitting you directly.