Sun safety is always in season, but particularly now that the temperatures are soaring and the sun is at its most intense, its vital that we know how to protect ourselves from the suns warm rays whilst enjoying them. Whether you are topping up your tan in your garden, or venturing to warmer climates abroad for your summer break, allow us to refresh your knowledge surrounding sun safety

“My general advice is that sunscreen is not an alternative to shade and clothing. Sunscreen should be factor 35 or above and also have a UVA rating of at least 4 or 5 stars, keep babies out of the sun, and sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours or after swimming – 2 tablespoons is enough to cover your whole body.” Dr Bakewell – GP at St Wulfstan Surgery

In the UK, the peak of the heat tends to be between 11am and 3:00pm, so this would be the best time to seek regular refuge in the shade. Just 10 minutes of strong sunshine is all it takes to burn pale skin! Always keep babies and toddlers in the shade when possible.

Our choice of clothing can also help protect our skin against sun damage, so try to opt for wide brimmed hats, long sleeved tops and long skirts or trousers. And although most of us choose them to complete our outfit of the day, your sunglasses prevent any damage to your eyes from the bright sun – so don’t forget them if you’re heading out! Sunglasses with good quality lenses that filter out the UV are essential, those with an EU CE Mark are proven to offer safe protection.

The NHS website advises that you should take extra care in the sun if you:

• have pale, white or light brown skin

• have freckles or red or fair hair

• tend to burn rather than tan

• have many moles

• have skin problems relating to a medical condition

• are only exposed to intense sun occasionally (for example, while on holiday)

• are in a hot country where the sun is particularly intense

• have a family history of skin cancer

It goes without saying that increasing our fluid intake will help prevent dehydration and overheating, having a refillable bottle of water on your person is a handy way of ensuring that you’re keeping yourself hydrated throughout the day! You can find more helpful advice on sun safety by visiting the following trusted websites:

https://www.skinhealthinfo.org.uk/sun-awareness/

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/

https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/heatwave-how-to-cope-in-hot-weather/