Finally the UK has been blessed with some warm weather and sunshine. With temperatures reaching 30 degrees in some areas, it’s important to stay sun safe and we have you covered with these top tips
Love it or loathe it, temperatures have risen to a staggering 30 degrees across the UK. And now, more than ever, sun safety is essential for protecting you and your body from excessive sun exposure.
While it may seem objectively simple, it is essential to take the proper measures to avoid lifelong damage to your health and accelerated superficial ageing from harmful ultraviolet rays (UV). Melanoma Focus’ latest survey of 2,000 individuals in the UK revealed that 19% reported they “rarely” apply sun cream from May to September, while 8% indicated they “never” use it during these months, and shockingly 9% stated they never wear sun cream at all.
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Sunscreen is a proven way to prevent sunburn, and every instance of sunburn further increases the risk of developing melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Unfortunately, 2,000 deaths a year are caused by skin cancer in the UK, but by making some simple changes to the way you enjoy the sun, you can lessen the risks.
Dr. Conal Perrett, London’s leading dermatologist at The Devonshire Clinic, explains: “It is essential that people understand that skin cancer is preventable by being skin conscious all year round.” He adds: “The risks associated with sunburn and excessive sun exposure far outweigh the appeal of a temporary tan.”
A sunburn is a skin reaction most commonly caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and is distinguished by redness, pain, and sometimes blisters and peeling. Dr Perret emphasises the significance our skin has on our overall health, stating: “With the skin being the largest organ of the body, sun exposure can cause thinning over time, making it more susceptible to skin conditions and cancer.”
So, as you enjoy a weekend basking in the sunshine, here are five tips to stay sun smart which don’t involve sitting at home all day.
Sunscreen
While it may seem like a tired conversation, there is a reason that sunscreen is the first suggestion for sun safety. Using sunscreen daily is undoubtedly the most effective way to guard your body from damaging UV rays.
It’s essential to invest in a good sunscreen. When choosing a sunscreen, opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50. However, there’s no benefit in having a good sunscreen if you don’t use it correctly.
Apply the lotion generously at least 30 minutes before exposure to UV rays. Additionally, it’s essential to reapply every two hours, or even more frequently if swimming or sweating.
Last but not least, cover any exposed areas that are not protected by a hat or clothing. The ears, neck, scalp, tops of the feet, and the backs of the hands are often overlooked and are prone to intense sunburns.
Hats
Hair does not protect our scalps from the harsh UV rays, so wearing a hat is vital. Hats provide ample protection against sunburn, shading your face, neck, ears, and scalp.
While they’re not always the most flattering, a wide-brim or bucket hat offers the most protection compared to other styles. Wearing a hat also helps prevent premature ageing, as prolonged sun exposure is one of the leading causes of wrinkles, age spots and hyperpigmentation.
Lightweight layers
On hot days, lighter clothing is essential, so it’s no surprise to pull out your denim shorts that were tucked away in your cupboard during winter. However, a great way to protect your skin from sun damage is by creating a physical barrier that either blocks or absorbs harmful UV rays before they reach your skin.
By wearing a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt instead of a vest, you reduce the amount of direct sun exposure. Although, this depends entirely on the type of fabric, so opt for cotton, wool, silk, or synthetic materials and avoid linens and more opaque garments.
Avoid outdoor activities during high UV hours
Certain times of the day have a higher UV rating. It’s essential to check the daily UV index before heading outside. This information is typically found on weather apps or websites.
The rule of thumb is that a UV rating of 3 or above requires sun safety precautions, which include wearing sunscreen, seeking shade, and wearing protective clothing as mentioned above. By keeping informed of the UV index throughout the day, you can plan and protect your skin accordingly.
On average, UV rays are most powerful between 11:00 am and 3:00 pm, so try to stay in the shade or indoors during these hours. Simply reducing exposure during peak times can greatly reduce your risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage.
Wear Sunglasses
Last but not least, wear sunglasses. Sunglasses are not just for comfort; they also protect your eyes from sun damage. Your eyes can also get sunburned, and unfortunately, it’s not as simple as applying sunscreen to them.
Sunglasses can help reduce glare and overall eye strain while protecting the eyes from UV rays. Prolonged sun exposure can lead to eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Wearing UV-protected glasses can significantly reduce the risk of developing one of these conditions.