“There’s no safe or healthy way to get a tan. A tan does not protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects.”
Sunscreen and sun safety – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Even in the UK on a cloudy day the sun can cause damage. Use a sunblock or sunscreen of at least factor 30 sunscreen preferably SPF50+, cover up with suitable clothing, a hat, and sunglasses.
Spend time in the shade when the sun is strongest. In the UK, this is between 11am and 3pm from March to October. Find a shady spot if you can or a beach tent with UPF50+ UV Protection.
Do not rely solely on sun-cream protect your skin and eyes – cover up with a wide-brimmed hat, a long-sleeved top, and trousers or long skirts, and sunglasses that provide sun protection.
Make sure your sunglasses offers full UVA and UVB protection. Sunglasses with ‘UV400’ or ‘100% UV’ protection will filter out 99% of UV light. It’s important to remember that the darkness of your sunglasses lenses has nothing to do with UV protection.
Swimming and Sunscreen
Water can wash sunscreen off your skin, and you may not notice you are getting sunburnt with the cooling effect of the water.
Being in or around water can increase your exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays as the water will reflect the sunlight. Opt for water-resistant sunscreen and reapply sunscreen immediately after being in the water. Remember even “water-resistant” sun-cream should be reapplied after being in the water.
By staying vigilant about sunscreen application and reapplication during water-based activities, you can ensure that your skin remains adequately protected from the harmful effects of UV rays.
Sun protection and Sun Safety
Suncream and Sunscreen
Sun protective clothing
Beach and Sun Shelters
Sunglasses
