Soaking up the sun can be really relaxing, but sun damage can lead to an increased risk of skin cancer and premature ageing. Even in the short term, sunburn can ruin your holiday - no one wants to cover up all week with painful, lobster-like skin.
How can I protect myself from sun damage?
Choose loose, cool clothing that covers you up. Wear sunglasses with UV protection and a hat to protect your face and neck. Take regular breaks in the shade and ideally keep out of the sun from 11am to 3pm.
Make wearing sun cream part of your routine. Cancer Research UK recommends a minimum of sun protection factor (SPF) 15 for most people. You don't have to buy the most expensive brand but check that your cream blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Use generous amounts, reapply after going in the water or sweating and if you're near the water, take extra care as you'll burn more easily.
When do I put my sun cream on?
Put your sun cream on at least 20-30 minutes before you go outside and reapply after 20-30 minutes in the sun and then every two hours. Always put your sun cream on before your 
moisturiser and make-up and don't forget the areas that are most commonly missed: your hair parting, your ears, nose, lips, feet and skin around the edges of your clothes.
Who's most at high risk from skin cancer?
People with fair skin, red or fair hair, light eyes, or a lot of moles or freckles need to take extra care in the sun. The same goes if you have a family history of skin cancer or a previous bad experience of sunburn. You might want to cover up, stay in the shade or wear sun cream that's SPF25 or more. If you notice changes to your skin or moles, speak to your GP.
Do children need extra protection?
Children have sensitive skin and need extra protection from the sun. Use SPF25 and reapply every two hours and after they've been in the sea, the pool or playing with water. Put them in loose clothing with long sleeves, preferably cotton and check shoulders, backs and necks are covered.
Hats are a must, ideally with a wide brim or a flap that covers the neck, as are sunglasses with UV filters. Babies under 12 months need to stay in the shade.
Can sun cream go off?
Eventually. Sun cream lasts for 2-3 years but check the expiry date on the bottle - you won't be protected if it's out-of-date. Keep your sun cream cool and out of direct sunlight as this can damage it.
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1 comments:
Protection from UVA and UVB rays is becoming more important with the increase of air pollutions. Sun rays not only harm the skin but also develop many kind of diseases. Though there are many kinds of sun protection creams in the market shelves, but selection should be made as per your skin class, preferable according to the recommendation of your health adviser.
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