Stay Safe in the Sun

With the mini heatwave looking like it will continue over the next few days, it is important to consider how we can stay safe in the sun and avoid getting sunburnt.

Skin cancer is currently the most common form of cancer in the UK with 37 people a day diagnosed with malignant melanoma. Yet most people still claim they feel healthier with a tan.

According to a OnePoll study, 75% of people have been sunburnt and 16% believe that getting sunburnt results in a better tan! Your skin never recovers from sunburn and getting sunburnt just once doubles the risk of melanoma.

Those most at risk are:

1.       Anyone with a history of sunburn or recreational exposure to sunlight

2.       The risk is higher if you have had an episode of sunburn in childhood

3.       The risk is high for sunbed users

4.       Fair skinned individuals with light hair and eyes are more likely to burn than tan and are more at risk of skin cancer

It is important to protect your skin with a good quality sunscreen. However, studies have found that not all sunscreens are equal! Sunscreens don’t necessarily offer the level of protection claimed on the packaging and studies have found that the most expensive brands don’t necessarily offer better protection.

The age of your sunscreen is also a factor. Once opened the active ingredients in the product lose their effect after a certain period of time, and sunscreen which has been kept for years might not be offering you the protection you think it is.

Follow these sunscreen guidelines:

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Apply sunscreen liberally 15 minutes before sun exposure and re-apply frequently (every 1 ½ - 2 hours) for ongoing sun protection

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Re-apply after swimming, perspiring and outdoor activities

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Use daily protection, regardless of skin type or colour

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Limit sun exposure between 10am and 3pm

Environ’s new RAD Sun Spray SPF 25 contains four different sunscreen elements which offer UVA and UVB protection that is also increased by the inclusion of the various antioxidants and vitamins contained in the formula, including vitamins C and E, rosemary leaf extract, lycopene and malt secrets. It is recognised by the Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) as a broad spectrum sunscreen providing adequate UVA and UVB protection.

Heatstroke is another danger associated with excessive sun exposure. Heat exhaustion occurs due to a loss of body fluids and salts following exposure to heat for a prolonged period of time. The individual experiences fatigue as a result of a decrease in blood pressure and blood volume. If untreated this can lead to heatstroke, which is much more serious than heat exhaustion. The body’s temperature becomes dangerously high due to excessive heat exposure. The body is unable to cool itself and becomes overheated. Signs of heatstroke include dry skin, vertigo, headache, confusion, thirst, nausea, muscle cramps and hyperventilation.

We often think that because we are in England the sun is not as strong. We do not take the heat seriously and forget to apply protection.

Be safe in the sun and think of your skin health – don’t leave home without your SPF and don’t forget to drink plenty of water!