Aim:

• Aim is to prevent sunburn, skin ageing and skin cancer.

Sunburn protection products

• There are a wide range of products available; lotions, sprays, creams and foam.
• No product is 100% effective.
• It is advised to use a ‘broad spectrum’ (it should state it) product which helps to protect from UVA and UVB.

UVA Protection

• UVA rays causes skin ageing, skin reactions when medicines and products are applied to the skin and damages the skin long term leading to skin disease and cancer.
• UVA protection is shown in a circle and should be least 3-4 stars.
• UVA protection below one-two starting does not offer sufficient protection.
• It is always advisable to use a 5 star product.

UVB Protection

• UVB rays are known to cause sunburn and skin cancer.
• The SPF (Sun Protection Factor) number tells you how good it is to protect your skin from harmful UVB rays. It tells you the amount of time the average person can stay out in the sun before burning.
• The higher the SPF number the more protection one has against burning.

Use of product

• Sunscreen should be applied 15–30 minutes before going out in the sun to allow it to dry, and be re-applied shortly after heading outdoors to cover any missed patches.
• It should be applied in a sufficient layer.
• Always follow manufactures directions.
• Apply generously (six 5ml spoonfuls of lotion to cover body) throughout the day and then a little more to make sure all patches covered when in the sun (particularly areas missed such as strapping, edge of clothing and neckline areas.
• Apply every 2-3 hours especially after swimming, wet drying or if one sweats a lot.
• If sunscreen is applied too thinly then protection is reduced;
• Areas such as the back and sides of the neck, temples and ears are commonly missed.
• Applying less sunscreen will reduce the protection to a higher degree than is proportionate — for example, only applying half the required amount can actually reduce the protection by as much as two-thirds.
• Always check expiry date of sunscreens. Most will last 2-3 years but over time sunscreens become less effective.
• It should not be kept longer than a year at home.
• Store in temperatures less than 25°C.
• Repellents can be used after sunscreen.

Sunscreen Products

• Sunscreens are important to protect us from sunburn and skin cancer.
  Everyone should protect themselves from the sun.
  People who are particularly vulnerable are those who get dehydrated or who have sensitive skin.
• There are two types:

1. Organic filters (chemical filters) which absorb the harmful UV radiation.
2. Inorganic filters (physical, natural, reflective) which work by reflecting UV radiation away from the skin.

Sun screen stick application

• These products are used in exposed areas nose, ears and lips. Always follow the manufacturer’s direction and re-apply regularly particularly after swimming, wet drying or if one sweats a lot.

After Sun Protection

• The products are formulated to soothe the skin after being exposed to the sun, help to rehydrate (moisturise) the skin and help to prevent the skin from peeling.

Additional tips

• The suns, reflection of surfaces i.e. snow; tanning beds and phototherapy lamps ultraviolet rays produces radiation in form of UVA and UVB. UVA radiation can cause skin ageing and UVB can cause sunburn and skin cancer if exposed.

• In the first instance, skin should be protected from strong sun exposure by wearing suitable clothing and seeking shade. Sunscreen is not an alternative to these measures and should be used in conjunction with them;
• Sunglasses with wraparound lenses or wide arms (to provide side protection) that have the CE mark should be worn to protect eyes;
• Spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm when the UV radiation is at its highest levels;
• Keep babies and young children out of direct sunlight.