How to avoid feeling the burn this summer

B asking in the warm glow of the summer sun, it’s easy to forget all worries. But, according to a recent study, almost one in four of us is so laid-back, we are taking our skin health for granted, causing potential long-term damage. YouGov research revealed almost a quarter of people don’t bother applying sunscreen, and men are twice as likely to avoid spraying on added protection. Also, Cancer Research UK attribute unsafe levels of UV radiation from the sun or sunbeds as the main cause of skin cancer, with 86% of melanoma cases caused by preventable over-exposure. So, how do we stay safe from the sun? Here, Dr Toni Phillips, from ZO Skin Health UK, shares her advice for avoiding skin damage. Q How much unprotected sun exposure will damage our skin? A This is variable depending on genetics.The darker and thicker your skin, the longer sun exposure needed to start sun radiation damage. For example, if you have freckles, any exposure to sun may cause damage in less than five minutes. Sunbathing outside the peak hours of 11am and 3pm is best avoided as it causes optimal damage. If you can’t avoid the sun, cover up as much as you can. On top of your SPF protection and consistent reapplication, wear clothing that covers as much as your body as possible. Seek any shaded areas when you’re outside and invest in a wide-brimmed hat to provide shelter from the rays. Q How should we treat burns to ensure we don’t see damage or premature ageing? A The short-term risks are sunburn and sun allergy.The longer-term risks include skin cancer, eye problems such as cataracts, and premature ageing of the skin. To treat burns and avoid premature ageing you should get out of the sun as soon as possible. Cool the affected skin by sponging it with cold water or have a cold bath. It is also best to apply a water-based emollient, such as Vaseline, to keep skin cool and moist. Drink plenty of fluids to cool you down and prevent dehydration. Q Are there any sunscreen myths we have been unknowingly following? A SPF should be applied regularly despite the classification – sun cream can sweat off during the day, one application is not good enough. Another sunscreen myth is that if your sunscreen is waterproof you don’t need to reapply after swimming or sweating.There is no such thing as waterproof sunscreen – you need to reapply after it has been washed off. Q What is the minimum SPF we should be wearing? A I recommend a sun cream with an SPF of 30 or higher, noting the UVA star rating as this indicates the extent the sun’s ultraviolet A rays are absorbed by the sun cream. Q What is your advice for wearing sunscreen while on holiday? A I always advise a simple strategy to ensure you apply enough; a golf ball-sized amount to protect your entire body and a teaspoon amount for your face and neck, building up in thin layers instead of one thick dose.This will ensure you apply all of the cream to your skin as opposed to wiping the excess off your hands. Always reapply three to five times daily and, if you can, apply in a shady area so you

can see every part of your body is covered. When we apply SPF we mostly start with the face, but it’s easy to forget the delicate areas such as the eyelids and upper lip.The best way is to start with these areas first and then work your way around your face. If you don’t wish to apply a thick cream, you can apply a light SPF mineral powder or spray. Anyone with close-cropped, shaved hair or a parting that is exposed to sun should ensure protection is layered on there. And remember to wear a hat!