Healthy Skin is In!

With summer just around the corner, its time for us to start thinking and planning activities, which make the most of our beautiful weather – but also ways in which we can all protect our bodies from the suns exposure.

The sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation is the best natural source of vitamin D. However too much UV exposure from the sun can create nasty side effects such as sunburn, premature ageing, eye damage and skin damage – which can lead to skin cancer.

UV radiation cannot be seen or felt. It is not like the suns light or warmth – our senses cannot detect it. This means we may be oblivious to the damaging effect it actually has on our bodies.

UV radiation varies greatly across Australia – affected by the time of day, time of year, cloud cover, altitude, proximity to the equator and reflection.

Skin Cancer is largely preventable – when the UV level is 3 or above, use a combination of these five steps as suggested by The Cancer Council Australia:

CLOTHING:

You should choose clothing that covers as much of your body as possible with long sleeves and high necks or collars. Materials such as cotton, polyester/cotton and linen – are ideal for blocking UV because of its close weave material, also lycra stays protective when wet!

SPF 30+ SUNSCREEN:

Ensure that the sunscreen you purchase is broad spectrum and water-resistant.

Apply generous amounts to clean, dry skin at least 20 minutes before you exposure yourself to the sun and reapply every 2 hours.

If you exercise, sports sunscreens, which don’t run when you sweat, are a great option. Sunscreen should always be used with other forms of protection too!

HAT:

Your choice of hat should provide good protection for the nose, face, neck and ears – which are common sites for skin cancers. Broad-brimmed or bucket style hats with closely woven fabric are ideal – if you can see though it, UV radiation will get through it!

SHADE:

Shade reduces sun exposure. Trees, built shade, or your own pop up structures in which cast a dark shadow are great methods for protection!

SUNGLASSES:

Sunglasses in which are close fitting and wrap-around the face, should be worn outside during daylight hours. Sunglasses and a broad-brimmed hat when worn together can reduce UV radiation to the eyes by 98 per cent!

Never rely on one form of protection alone. Combine sun-protective clothing with SPF 30 or higher sunscreen, a broad-brimmed hat that protects the face, head, neck and ears, shade and sunglasses.

When summer arrives, bringing warmth and relaxation – remember those long, light-filled days at the beach don’t have to result in overexposure to the sun’s dangerous UV rays. By following these summer safety tips, you can enjoy yourself without compromising your health or style.

Protect your skin; it’s the only one you’ve got!