Be Safe Under The Sun

Sun Safe Tips

Going on holiday often means exposing your skin to the sun for the first time after a long winter of cold weather and warm clothes. It’s important to devote extra attention to your skin before you leave, to make sure it is ready for the sudden change.

Tips for safe and effective sunscreen application and sun behaviour:

1. Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before going out in the sun to allow maximum absorption and protection.

2. Make sure you're applying enough sunscreen (at least 3 tablespoons to cover your entire body). Reducing the quantity lowers the level of protection significantly. Pay special care to more sensitive areas, such as your ears, nose shoulders, cleavage and neck. 

3. Don’t neglect hard to reach and easily forgotten places, such as your ears, feet and upper back.

4. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. Apply more frequently after swimming, sweating or toweling. 

5. Try to avoid intense midday sun from 11:00am and 3:00pm during the summer months or when on holiday in tropical countries. 

6. If you are taking medication, check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure it’s OK to spend time in the sun. Some medicines can make the skin more sensitive to the sun’s rays. 

7. Overexposure to the sun can threaten your health, so avoid staying out in the sun too long, even when using a sunscreen.

8. Protect children. Children are particularly vulnerable to the effects of UV radiation and often spend more time outdoors than adults. Parents should take special care to protect them from the sun using protective clothing, hats, sunglasses and sunscreens. Keep babies and young children out of direct sunlight.