With summer upon us, it is important to be aware of how to stay safe when you are out and about in the sunshine. Not protecting yourself from the sun can have negative effects on your health, in the short term; it can result in painful sunburn and later in life it can even cause premature aging and skin cancer. Even though the sun can be damaging, it can also have some great benefits including providing much needed vitamin D and boosting our happy hormone, serotonin – take a these 6 ways to improve your mental wellbeing, including how Vitamin D aids in boosting your mood. So, with this being said - don’t lock yourself away, just learn how to take care when frolicking about in the sun…
Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a type of energy produced by the sun and the main cause of skin cancer, it is recommended to protect yourself from the sun when the UV index is over 3.
Can be cancerous to humans
Are not related to temperature
Can pass through loosely knit materials
Cannot be seen or felt
Are not stopped by clouds
Can reflect off materials
It is important to protect your skin all year round, but it’s even more imperative that you protect your skin in the warmer months; it’s time to cover up, spend time in the shade and use sun cream.
Everyone knows sun cream is a must and is one of the best ways to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, but are you using it correctly? Make sure to buy sun cream with an SPF of at least 25 and a four-star UVA protection score. Even if you don’t burn, your skin can be damaged by harmful rays. It is important to apply your sun cream at least 30 minutes before you head out to allow the sun cream to absorb into your skin, as sun rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes – it is recommended for your entire body, adults should use at least two tablespoons of sun cream per application. It doesn’t stop there – remember to reapply throughout the day!
You may think you’re getting a good deal on a cheap pair of sunglasses but often many cheaper sunglasses from common high-street stores don’t have UV protection, which can damage your eyes. For example, not correctly protecting your eyes can lead to vision loss, cataracts or pterygium which is a growth that could eventually block your vision. Treat yourself this summer to a pair of 100% UV protection sunglasses – your eyes will thank you later!
By ‘drinking plenty’ we don’t mean cocktail after cocktail by the pool, we’re talking water. Being out in the hot sun all day is most likely going to make you sweat which can quickly leave your body dehydrated. Alternatively, if your body doesn’t sweat, your body temperature can soar which can also result in sunstroke. Keep your body hydrated so it can function properly throughout the day.
During 11am and 2pm the sun is at its highest and the sun’s rays are strongest, during these hours make sure to spend time in the shade. If you are at home: nip inside for a nap or a bite to eat. If you’re out for the day make sure you are prepared, for example, if you’re heading to the beach don’t forget a beach umbrella to provide shade when you feel like you need it. We understand that this may prove difficult if you work outside – so just make sure to take note of our other tips to protect your body from the potential dangers of the sun.
Making sure you are safe in the sun is important, but it is also vital to make sure you are prepared when it comes to health implications that are out of your control. Acquiring health insurance is a great way to ensure that you will receive the best care and treatments should you ever need it.
Here at THIS, we specialise in finding you the best policy, for the right price. Fill in our online quote form to get a free, no obligation quote. Alternatively, give our friendly team a call on 0808 10 18 999.
