PROTECTING yourself from the sun isn’t as simple as slathering on one lot of sunscreen and then thinking you’re all set for a day catching rays.
In fact, you’re never fully safe from the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays, which can cause skin damage, contributing to wrinkles and of course, melanoma skin cancer.
GettyAvoid being caught out in the sun by dodging these five mistakes lots of us make[/caption]
Around nine in ten cases of melanoma skin cancer can be avoided by taking care to protect your skin in the sun, while shockingly, 80 per cent of harmful sun exposure occurs before the age of 18.
Scott McDougall, pharmacist and registered manager of online pharmacy The Independent Pharmacy, says: “Everyone should take sun care seriously to avoid permanent damage to our bodies.
“Some people, including the young, elderly, and chronically ill, will be especially vulnerable during this time of year.
“As you embrace the season, pay close attention to yourself and those around you.”
Scott says that there are five key culprits when it comes to us making mistakes with sun protection.
Which are you guilty of?
1. Using expired sunscreen
Don’t dig out old bottles of sunscreen from years past.
“Check the bottle! Most products have a limited shelf life and store bought sunscreen typically lasts just six to 12 months.”
2. Choosing a low SPF
Unless you want to frazzle, skip low SPF products.
“Your body absorbs vitamin D from the sun even through sunscreen, so choose factor 50 where possible, and at least SPF30.”
3. Not applying enough sunscreen
Yes, it can get a bit pricey, but trying to make one bottle of sunblock last by applying it sparingly, really isn’t worth the cost to your health.
“Don’t be stingy, apply liberally and reapply throughout the day – generally every two hours and immediately after a swim.”
And that’s even if your sunblock says it’s waterproof.
4. Being too late with the sunscreen
The early bird ends up far less crisped than those who start slapping the white stuff on already singed skin.
“Apply before leaving, not as you burn.”
5. Thinking you’re fully protected
Sadly, “100% sun protection is a myth, protect yourself with cover, cream and consistency.”
And remember, tanning of any kind involves some level of skin damage, so also try and avoid going outside during peak times when the UV rays are highest, 11am-3pm.
There’s even more you can do to protect yourself outdoors in all this sunny weather. Scott recommends:
Scooting into the shade between 11am and 3pm
“This is when the sun is at the highest point with heat building past noon,” says Scott.
“If outside, find reliable patches of shade such as under an umbrella or a large tree.”
Wearing SPF30 – even when you’re tucked away in the shade
“UV rays bounce off most surfaces, including sand and grass,” says Scott.
“Preferably use factor 50 but SPF30 at the very least.
“Reapply if you’ve been in the water, even water-resistant sunscreen can wash off.”
Wearing high SPF clothing for added protection
“Keep a t-shirt on as much as possible, but note a dry dark t-shirt may offer better protection than a light wet one,” says Scott.
Paying particular attention to your moles and freckles: “Monitor changes in your skin, moles and freckles,” says Scott.
“Patches of skin that change colour should be reported to your doctor.
“Skin cancer is far easier to treat when found early.”
Not trusting your SPF make-up or moisturiser to protect your skin
“You should apply factor 50 or above directly to your skin first, then apply your make-up routine afterwards,” says Scott.