‘Lobster’ arms. Heat exhaustion. Even with the best intentions, many of us can be guilty of not quite getting our sun protection exactly right. Avoid risking serious health issues with this advice.

Protecting Your Skin
“A tan is actually a sign that the skin has been damaged and is trying to protect itself,” warns the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD). Your body is desperately producing brown melanin to protect itself from further UV damage. UV damage can lead to skin cancer. 

While we need a little outdoor sunshine to maintain our Vitamin D levels, we should limit our exposure by:
• Finding shade when the sun is strongest (usually 11am – 3pm from March to October in the UK)
• Covering our skin (remembering that UV light will penetrate some fabrics)
• Choosing a suitable sunscreen and using it properly.

Choosing Sunscreen
UVA protection is rated up to 5 stars. The SPF (sun protection factor) refers to UVB, ranging from 2 (lowest protection) to 50+. Choose sunscreen with both UVA protection, at least four-star, and UVB protection with an SPF of at least 30.

Using Sunscreen
Sun cream is only as effective as its application, so ensuring that it is used properly is important:
• Apply liberally – apply at least two teaspoons of sunscreen to cover the head, arms and neck and two tablespoons for the entire body while wearing a swimming costume.
• Apply frequently – apply sunscreen 30 minutes before, and again just before, going out – then at least every two hours afterwards. Also apply it straight after you’ve been in water, even if it’s ‘water-resistant’. 
• Don’t use expired sunscreen (or in date sunscreen that’s been left in direct sunlight or got hot).

Remember:
• Water can increase the sun’s radiation by 5%, and sand by 17%. 
• The sensitive skin of babies and children needs extra protection. Keep children under 6 months out of strong sunlight completely.
• Take extra care if you have:
-pale, white or light brown skin
-freckles or red or fair hair
-many moles (look out for new moles and changes to existing moles, freckles or skin patches)
-skin problems relating to a medical condition
-a family history of skin cancer
-a tendency to burn rather than tan
-only occasional exposure to intense sun (e.g. holidays) or are in a hot country with particularly intense sun

Treating Sunburn
Apply plenty of cold water, then a soothing product such as after sun or calamine lotion. An antiseptic cream containing a local anaesthetic can help, as can basic painkillers. If you feel unwell or your skin swells badly or blisters, seek medical help. Avoid the sun until all redness has gone.

Protecting Your Eyes
UV light damages eyes too, so always teach children never to look at the sun and ensure the whole family wears sunglasses that protect against UVA and UVB and carry the CE Mark.

For more information about the risks of sunburn and to assess your skin type, visit https://tinyurl.com/sunsafetyadvice