Summer’s now in full swing and if the British weather’s been kind, or if you’re going away on holiday, you’ll likely be spending more time in the sun. While the sun’s warmth can feel wonderful on your skin, it’s crucial to remember that overexposure can be very dangerous. Skin cancers can present in various ways, and symptoms can differ significantly from person to person. This variability makes it challenging to determine if a change in your skin or a mole is something more serious.
1/ Spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm.
2/ Use at least factor 30-50 sunscreen to protect against UVB. Ensure it has at least 4-star UVA protection and check that it’s within its expiry date.
3/ Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin and ensure it’s reapplied every two hours, as the sun can dry it off your skin.
4/ Take extra care in the high sun and cover up with suitable clothing including a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved top, especially if: you tend to burn in the sun, have many moles, have skin problems, have pale, white or light brown skin, or have a family history or skin cancer.
5/ Reapply sunscreen straight after you or your child has been in water or when the sunscreen has sweated off.
6/ Keep all children under six months out of direct sunlight.
7/ Avoid looking directly at the sun and use proper eye protection.
Do you think sun protection is only crucial for fair skin? Think again. Join us for an essential conversation on skin health and dermatology with experts Sophia Brown, Lead Dermatology nurse at Vita Health Group, and Dr. Sharon Belmo, a Consultant Dermatologist.