Protect your skin effectively from the sun

People often take trips to get more sun, but too much sun exposure is unhealthy. Adequate protection can help you avoid problems, from painful sunburns to skin cancer.

 Basic Tips to Follow

• Spend as much time in the shade as possible, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Wear a wide-brim hat or cap, as well as sunglasses with 100% UV protection.
• When you are in the sun, wear light-coloured, tightly-woven, loose-fitting, comfortable clothing.
• Use a broad spectrum sunscreen (protection against both UVA and UVB) with a minimum SPF 30.
• Certain medications can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight or may make you more sensitive to heat. Ask your pharmacist to review whether any of your medications might have these effects.

Bear in mind that the sun's rays can reach you directly, but also reflect off water, sand, concrete and snow! Clouds filter very little sunlight, and water filters none. Protect yourself whenever you are outdoors, even when the sky is overcast or when you go swimming.

When Applying Sunscreen, Make Sure to:

1. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going in the sun. Sunscreen needs to penetrate your skin to be effective.
2. Apply it generously to all parts of the body, particularly the hands, neck, bald areas of the head and ears, which we tend to forget. To get full effect of the SPF, use approximately 30 ml (2 tablespoons) to cover entire body.
3. To protect your lips from sunburn, use a lip balm that has SPF.
4. Repeat the application:
   
   • Every 2 hours
   • After swimming
   • After sweating profusely (during physical exercise, for instance)
5. If also applying insect repellent, apply sunscreen 20 minutes before applying the insect repellent.

Special Considerations

If you have questions about how to protect your skin from the sun, consult your pharmacist. He or she will provide you with a recommendation adapted to your skin type and any health considerations, so you can fully enjoy your time outdoors.