Choose the right sun protection product based on skin type and intensity of exposure
TEN RULES FOR SAFE SUN EXPOSURE
1. Over-exposure to the sun is a serious health risk. It is important be aware of and avoid the damages that may be caused by the sun. No product blocks all UV rays; however, the use of suitable sun protection products prevents the risk of skin cancer, redness and heat rash and protects against photo-aging of the skin.
2. It is important to choose and compare sun protection products based on skin type (phototype), exposure and location (snow, sea, pool, sand, etc.). Use sun protection products that offer adequate protection and when in doubt, consult with your physician. Pay more attention to solar radiation when you are near water, snow and sand.
3. Avoid over-exposure even if you are using a UVA+UVB sun protection product. No product can provide total protection.
4. Always avoid sun exposure during the hottest hours of the day (11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.) and stay in the shade between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., but remember that trees, parasols and canopies do not offer total protection against solar radiation. Check the UV index daily, including in the weather forecast pages in newspapers. The higher the index, the more important it is to protect yourself.
5. Always try to avoid sunburn. Especially when the sun is highest in the sky, it is advisable to wear a t-shirt, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
6. Remember to pay special attention to children. Keep babies and young children out of direct sunlight. Always protect them with a t-shirt and hat and keep them under a parasol during the hottest hours of the day.
7. Apply sun protection products prior to sun exposure. The fact you may already have a suntan does not constitute adequate protection.
8. Properly apply a sufficient amount of cream and re-apply, especially after swimming or toweling off or if you sweat a lot. Do not forget to apply sunscreen to all body parts exposed to the sun. In order to be effective, sun protection products must be applied correctly and in an adequate amount (usually 35 grams of product, equivalent to approximately six teaspoons, for the entire body).
9. Protect the skin while swimming in the sea or in the pool, as ultraviolet rays are dangerous even when you are in the water.
10. Use products that protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Use sun protection products that offer at least “medium" protection. In other words, an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 15, 20 or 25.
WE ALSO RECOMMEND THE FOLLOWING:
- Gradually expose your skin to the sun, especially in the first few days, alternating sun and shade, so that the skin can get used to the sun. The lighter the skin, the slower you should increase your exposure time.
- Use high SPF factors as this will allow you to suntan anyway, more slowly and less intensely, but the suntan will be more even and longer lasting.
- Always use sunscreens with a high SPF factor both at high altitudes or when near the Equator, as the risk of sunburn is higher in these areas.
- Do not forget to protect ears, the back of the neck, bald spots, the top of the feet including toes, and the fold of the knees.
- Do not forget to apply sunscreen even when the sky is cloudy.
- Avoid staying in the sun for too long without moving. It is better to move around and change positions often during exposure to the sun.
- Watch out for the wind. The feeling of freshness sun provides to the skin may cause you to incautiously prolong the exposure times, thereby increasing your risk of sunburn.
- Watch out for medications: certain medications may increase the body’s sensitivity to the sun and often cause spots on the skin. If you are currently taking medication, always ask your physician or pharmacist for advice. To prevent any spots on the skin, never use perfume or scented deodorants before sunbathing. Hormonal changes encourage the appearance of dark spots (pregnant women should be especially careful in the sun or avoid exposure altogether).
- Remember that burns caused by over-exposure to the sun are not immediately felt as 24 hours may pass before they are completely visible.
- In the evening, after showering or bathing, always apply a moisturizing after-sun product to perfectly dry face and body skin.