Summer is here, and if you find yourself spending extended periods in hot, sunny weather, there are crucial steps to take to ensure your safety in the sun. Skin expert Clare O’Connor emphasizes the importance of sun protection, highlighting its role in preventing premature aging and reducing the risk of melanoma development.
While UV exposure can contribute to wrinkles, fine lines, and uneven skin texture, it’s crucial to remember that protecting yourself from the sun is a daily habit that can be lifesaving. Clare O’Connor advocates for a simple yet effective approach to sun safety, remembering the 3Cs: cream, cover, and check.
The first C, “cream,” emphasizes the need for sunscreen. Clare reminds us that the average adult needs to apply at least eight teaspoons of sunscreen to their entire body for adequate coverage. Boots Soltan offers a family-friendly multipack with high SPF options for children, a brightening facial cream with vitamin C, and a soothing aftersun lotion. Trinny London’s See The Light sunscreen is another popular choice, providing SPF50 protection and long-lasting hydration with its raspberry leaf extract.
When choosing sunscreen, Clare advises looking for products with a 5-star UVA rating and high SPF for optimal protection. Reapplication is essential after contact with water, sand, towels, or sweating, and it’s crucial not to miss areas like lips, ears, neck, feet, and scalp.
The second C, “cover,” emphasizes the importance of using hats and sunglasses for added protection. Wide-brimmed hats shield your head, face, and neck, while wraparound sunglasses with UV filters protect your eyes. Seeking shade during the hottest hours of the day, typically between 11 am and 3 pm from March to October in the UK, is also crucial. Wearing long, light-colored clothing made from natural fibers with a tight weave provides further protection for your arms and legs.
If you prefer a lighter option than a long-sleeved shirt, Amazon offers Glaitc UV Protection Cooling Arm Sleeves. Mountain Warehouse also offers UV protection dresses, such as the Santorini Womens UV Jersey Wrap Dress, which is lightweight, moisture-wicking, and provides up to SPF50+ protection.
The final C, “check,” encourages regular skin checks to detect any changes in moles or pigmented lesions. Clare recommends taking photos of these areas for comparison. If you have any concerns, consult your GP or NHS 111, or consider utilizing the Mole Scanning Service provided by ScreenCancer at Boots. This service offers an assessment of suspicious moles or lesions and can help identify those requiring further investigation.
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