It is important to protect your skin from the sun, whether that is on holiday, or at home. The safest way to enjoy the sun is to utilise shade, clothing and sufficient sunscreen.
It is also important to remember wearing sunscreen does not mean you can spend longer in the sun and should be used to protect parts of the skin not covered by clothing or shade.
The sun and UV can cause cancer due to the damaged DNA in your skin cells. Click here to read more about this.
How to enjoy the sun safely
Seek shade – Take a break under trees or umbrellas, especially in the middle of the day when the sun is strongest.
Cover up – Wear a top that covers your shoulders, a wide brimmed hat and UV protection sunglasses.
Apply sunscreen – Pick one with at least SPF 30 and 4 to 5 stars. Use it generously and regularly.
Don’t get caught by the weather
Even on cloudy, windy or cooler days there is still a risk of sunburn. Over 90% of UV rays can pass through cloud. So, it is important to ensure that you find shade, cover up and use sunscreen.
Clothing
Try to choose clothing that is loose-fitting that may be long sleeved or cover your shoulders.
Look for materials with a close weave – hold the material up to the light and check you cannot see through the fabric, some clothing also has UPF ratings.
Try to wear dark or bright colours, intense colours can help filter more UV rays.
Sun safety for children
Sun safety is important for all ages. It is therefore recommended you follow the guidance of sunscreen, shade and clothing to look after your skin. Sunscreen should not be used on babies under 6 months old and the NHS recommends that babies under 6 months should be kept out of direct sunlight.
Children and teenagers may need reminding or help when it comes to sun safety, but you should set the example for them.
Swimming and sunscreen
Water washes off sunscreen and the cooling effect of the water can make you think you’re not getting sunburnt. Water also reflects UV rays which increases your exposure.
Try to use water-resistant suncream to help if you are sweating or may be in contact with water but also remember to reapply straight after being in water and/or towel drying as it may have rubbed off.
Sunbeds
Sunbeds, sunlamps and tanning booths give off UV radiation. If you want a tan, you are better using fake tan from a bottle or spray tan as there is no such thing as safe UV tanning.
Learn more about the risks of using sunbeds and legislation around this.
Find out the truth behind some common myths and how to stay sun safe this summer!