We must be due some warmer weather soon as it is National Sun Awareness Week which is organised by the British Association of Dermatologists. The aim is to raise awareness of the dangers of excessive sun exposure and how to avoid sunburn and skin cancers.
As a teenager I know I didn't look after my skin in the sun. My friends and I would sunbathe, trying to get the best tan and more often than not getting sun burn. It was only when I had kids I started using more protection from the sun on the kids and on myself!
As we gear up for longer days, spending more time outside it's important to remember that while sunshine can do wonders for our mood and health it also comes with its fair share of risks. This week is a great reminder about sun safety and encouraging everyone to enjoy the sun responsibly. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the UK and rates have been climbing since the 1960s. Sun damage which starts in childhood can lead to skin cancer later in life.
Here are some top tips to help you stay safe in the sun:
Slather on the SPF: Sunscreen is your skin's best friend when it comes to sun protection. Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, and don't forget to apply it generously to all exposed areas of skin. Remember to reapply every two hours, especially if you're swimming or sweating.
Seek Shade: While it's tempting to soak up the sun's rays, seek shade during peak hours when the sun's rays are strongest (usually between 10 AM and 4 PM). Whether it's under a tree, an umbrella or a wide brimmed hat. Finding shade can help reduce your exposure to harmful UV radiation.
Cover Up: Clothing can provide an extra layer of protection against the sun's rays. Wear lightweight, long sleeved shirts, pants and wide brimmed hats to shield your skin from direct sunlight. Don't forget to protect your eyes with sunglasses that offer UV protection.
Stay Hydrated: Spending time in the sun can lead to dehydration, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Hydrated skin is healthy skin, and staying hydrated can also help prevent heat related illnesses.
Practice Self-Examination: Regularly check your skin for any changes, such as new moles, freckles, or spots, as well as changes in existing moles or spots. If you notice anything unusual, consult a dermatologist or doctor as soon as you can. Early detection of skin cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Avoid Tanning Beds: While the allure of a golden tan may be tempting, tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation that can increase your risk of skin cancer and premature aging. Embrace your natural skin tone and opt for sunless tanning alternatives if you're craving a bronzed glow.
Spread the Word: Share your sun safety knowledge with friends, family, and loved ones. Encourage them to prioritise sun protection and make it a habit year round.
Let's celebrate the sunshine responsibly and prioritise the health of our skin. By following these simple tips and spreading awareness about sun safety we can enjoy all the benefits of sunshine while minimising the risks. Here's to a summer filled with sunshine, laughter, and healthy, happy skin!
Are you careful in the sun?
Great advice. Fair folks burn easily - I did too often when I was young. I knew I'd never be a tanned California girl but I wanted more than freckles and sunburn.
ReplyDeleteAlways good to have a reminder of sunshine risks. I got horribly burned one year, on my lower leg that was sticking out of a slit in my cover-up of all things and I never want to go through anything like that again.
ReplyDeleteI do burn fairly easily so I try to stay in the shade whenever possible but I rarely use sunscreen... unless I'm going to be in full sun for hours and can't avoid it but even then I'll often opt for long sleeves and a hat.
ReplyDeleteGood advice especially keeping hydrated!
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