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We all need a little sun; after all it’s our primary source of vitamin D, which helps us absorb calcium for stronger, healthier bones. But too much time in the sun can have far-reaching consequences.
Did you know?
Sun damage is the greatest threat to our skin, and as we age, our skin becomes thinner, more fragile and less able to protect and restore itself. So people with older skin are required to take extra care to avoid the sun as much as possible.
Where to start?
Familiarise yourself with the three types of ultraviolet rays, which are all dangerous, and are listed as follows:
UVA
- Make up most of our sun exposure
- Causes ageing and contributes to skin cancer
- Are dangerous throughout the day
- 85% of UVA rays penetrate thick glass
- 77% penetrates a metre of water and wet cotton clothing
UVB
- Causes sunburns
- Increases you chance of cataracts
- Negatively affects your immune system
- Contributes to skin cancer
- Tans your skin
UVC
- Are the most dangerous
- Will cause all humans to have skin cancer and other cancers
- Has a shorter wavelength than UVA or UVB
- Most UVC rays are fortunately absorbed by the ozone layer
Be sun-safe
With the right precautions, you and your loved ones can safely enjoy the sun. Here are the most effective strategies:
- Do outdoor activities when the temperature is cooler (early morning or late afternoon).
- Seek shade when the sun is at its highest (between 10 am to 2 pm).
- Wear a hat and sunglasses when you’re outdoors.
- If you are in the sun during this time, apply and reapply a water-resistant sunscreen.
- If you wear foundation, apply sunscreen as well as foundation.
- Get a sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher that says "broad-spectrum".
- Wear sunscreen whether you are dark or light skinned.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after sweating or swimming.
- Use a sunscreen even on cloudy, cool, or overcast days.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
REMEMBER: Many of the older generation come from a time when we knew little about how the sun can cause skin cancer and premature aging of the skin. But it’s never too late to start protecting your skin and prevent the onset of skin cancer.
