Sun Protection

At high-risk times it can take just 10 minutes to experience a significant sunburn. There are many ways to reduce the risks of sunburn and skin cancer. The UV index is very important in assessing risk. Exposure to UV light is highest closest to the equator, in the middle of the day and at high altitude. Skin types are also important in how you manage the sun.  Individuals with a fair skin burn easily while darker skinned individuals might be fine for more than an hour. Seek out your own skin type: NCBI

• Avoid being exposed between 11am and 3pm. The sun is strongest in the middle of the day.
• Wear “cool” fabrics such as cotton or linen. These should be loose fitting, tightly woven and light coloured to reflect the light. Use sunglasses that filter out both UVA and UVB rays. Wrap around styles provide the best protection.
• Be careful in areas where reflected light may be a problem eg water, snow, sand and concrete. Fresh snow reflects 85%, water 30% and sand up to 20%. Clouds and cool breezes may also give a false sense of security. In exposed situations take care despite the actual “comfort” factor.
• Remember, shade cannot always provide good protection. Sunburn may still occur in less than an hour even with shelter under a tree. Shade should be seen as an extra to other means of protection.
• Sunscreens are very important for protection, but do not provide endless 100% protection. Sunscreens are classified according to their Sun Protection Factor. This is a measure of how well it protects the skin. SPF 50+ is estimated to filter 98% of UVB radiation. Sunscreens are also measured for water resistance, and this is important when considering water activities. Broad-spectrum means protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Apply sunscreens at least 20 minutes before exposure to the sun or water.
• For good protection you need to use at least 6 to 8 teaspoons (30mls) of sunscreen for an average sized body.
• Contrary to common belief a tan doesn’t protect you from sunburn or skin cancer. Depending on your skin type you may achieve a SPF of 2 to 4 from a suntan and this is not very long in the sun.
• If sunscreens are to be used with insect repellents, then the sunscreen should be applied first. Wait at least 20 minutes before using the repellent. Combination products are not recommended. The sunscreen protection may be reduced by a third.
• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 50+ every 2 hours and after swimming and exercise.