Sun Protection
Ultraviolet (UVA and UVB) rays are light radiated by the sun. The earth's ozone layer filters out most UVA and UVB rays before they reach us but some can still get through, causing damage to our skin. It is important to use sun sense when travelling to hot climates. Some useful tips for avoiding sunburn are:
Don't wait till your skin feels uncomfortable before taking preventative action. The best form of protection is defence. Once your skin is burned the damage has already been done so cover-up up with loose-fitting clothes. Make sure that your legs and arms are covered. Tightly woven fabrics will provide the best protection from the sun.
Avoid direct exposure to sunlight between the hours of 11am and 3pm when the sun is at it's strongest. If you do go outside between these times cover-up with clothes, hat and sunglasses and apply plenty of sun protection lotion.
Always use a sun protection lotion with an SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 15. Very fair-skinned people and children need to use lotions with an SPF of up to 40. The skin is damaged most by the sun before the age of 18.
Make sure that your entire body is covered by sun protection lotion. This includes your face, hands, feet and neck. The most vulnerable parts of your body are the places that are not usually exposed to sunlight.
Apply sun lotion at least 30 minutes before going out in the sun. Reapply it every couple of hours, as sweat and friction against towels for example will cause it to wear off. Reapply immediately after swimming, even if your lotion is a waterproof variety. Wear waterproof sun protection when swimming. UVA and UVB rays can penetrate through a metre or so of water.
Cloud and fog do not protect skin from ultraviolet rays. Cover up with clothing and use SPF 15 sun lotion even on cloudy days.
Always wear a hat and sunglasses that have UVA and UVB filters when in the sun. Ultraviolet rays can damage the retinas in your eyes causing cataracts.
Drink plenty of fluids, particularly after exercise. Isotonic drinks that replace the salt lost through sweating are ideal, but water is also sufficient. Avoid alcoholic drinks when you are out in the sun.