The famous British summer may not be renowned for its blazing sunshine, but with millions of us fleeing the rain and the wind in favour of foreign shores - it is still important to know how to look after your health in the sun.
The sun can affect your body in many ways. From sunburn to skin cancer – exposing your skin to damaging UV rays can result in serious health complications.
But there’s no need to stay locked away for the summer months. Here, Dr Helen Story of the Central Sheffield GP Consortium explains how you can make the most of the sunshine without putting your health at risk:
PREVENTION
“The most important thing to remember when you’re out and about in the sun is prevention.
“Always make sure you apply sunscreen generously. Most people don’t apply enough of it, which means that they’re not getting the level of protection indicated on the packaging.
“Also, take the time to apply sunscreen to any skin that’s exposed to the sun - including the areas that often get forgotten such as the back and sides of the neck and your ears.”
“The advised amount of sunscreen to apply is at least six heaped teaspoons per average adult’s body, at a minimum of SPF 30. You should always apply it 15-30 minutes before going out into the sun and then again every two to three hours - or immediately after swimming or towel drying.
“And try to keep out of intense sun between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is at its strongest.”
But it’s not just sunscreen that keeps you safe in the sun – many people forget that what you wear can also affect your skin.
Dr Story said: “Your clothing can also protect your skin from the sun. For example, you should always try to wear a hat with a broad rim in the sun, to avoid getting your face, scalp and neck burnt. Baseball caps are not advised as they don’t protect all of your head.
“You should try to wear a long sleeved loose t-shirt if possible – but this is often easier said than done in the heat – so again, make sure any exposed flesh is sufficiently protected with sunscreen.
“And take extra care if you are a red head, have fair skin and blue eyes as you are at a higher risk of burning in the sun.”
SEEKING HELP
But in a society that is obsessed with sunbathing and getting a tan – it is inevitable that most of us will suffer from sun damage at some point.
So how can you deal with it?
“If you’ve been out in the sun too long, make sure you drink plenty of fluids to replace the water your body has lost through sweating, and don’t drink alcohol as it will only dehydrate you more,” said Dr Story.
“If you have mild sunburn, cool the skin by sponging it with lukewarm water, or take a cool shower or bath and apply a moisturising lotion or aftersun cream.
“If your burns are sore, painkillers such as paracetemol or ibuprofen can relive the pain and reduce swelling – but must only be used by adults.
“However, if you are severely burnt or have a child or baby with sunburn, visit your GP as special burn cream and dressings may be needed.”
Sometimes, exposure to the sun can cause further health complications, such as skin cancer – so it’s important to know the signs.
Dr Story said: “Keep an eye on your skin. Look out for any unusual spots or blemishes and be especially vigilant if you have moles. If you notice anything different in the size or shape, or if it starts bleeding, visit your doctor immediately.”
For more useful information about staying safe in the sun, visit: www.bad.org.uk