We all know that it’s important to wear sun protection when sunbathing abroad to protect against the harmful effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. But when at home, particularly in cooler climates, it’s easy to forget that our skin may still need protection.
If you are fair-skinned or spend large parts of your day outside, it is particularly important to protect your skin against sun damage – even in the UK. Some people are more at risk than others and so it’s important to know your sun risk.
Outdoor workers
If you have a job that means you work predominantly outdoors such as a gardener or labourer; you will be exposed to the sun for a large part of the day – including the times when the sun’s rays are at their most powerful. Protect yourself by wearing sunscreen at work and cover up with a t-shirt and hat. Remember that even when there is cloud or a cool breeze, the sun’s rays can still burn. The best sunscreens are those with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.
Fair skin
The harmful effects of the sun vary depending on your skin type and people with fair skin are known to be most at risk from sunburn. If you have fair skin, it may be worth using a sun protector all year round. If you don’t want to put thick sun creams on your face, there is a wide range of moisturisers available containing sun protector. These will not only protect against UV rays but will also help safeguard against dry skin and wrinkles caused by the sun.
Children
Young people are particularly susceptible to sunburn as their skin is more delicate. They may also spend a lot of time playing outside and probably won’t recognise the telltale signs that their skin is starting to burn until it is too late. Ensure children wear a sunscreen especially designed for children and teach them to cover their skin and wear a hat in hot weather.
Treating sunburn
If you’ve spent too long in the sun and have developed sunburn, the effects can range from a mild tingle to a very painful hot sensation. Unfortunately, once the skin has burnt, the long-term damage has already occurred. However, there are steps you can take to reduce the discomfort and try prevent the skin from peeling. For mild sunburn, there is a range of after-sun products which will help cool the skin and keep it moisturised. Calamine lotion is also a good treatment. If the sunburn is more severe, has blistered, or is on a child, then you should seek medical advice.
Treatment for sunburn aims to cool the skin and relieve any pain. Applying a cold flannel over the area will help cool the skin, while moisturising lotions and creams will help keep it moist.
Sunburn can sometimes be accompanied by sunstroke which is a serious condition where the body’s core temperature rises to a dangerous level and can cause nausea, vomiting, fainting and in severe cases unconsciousness or even death. If you suspect someone is suffering from sunstroke, you should seek medical advice straightaway.
For more information about staying safe in the sun, visit: www.sunsmart.org.uk/