Five things you should know about sun safety and your skin

Written by Nick Thompson
Published on 24/7/2023

We wear suncream for three reasons: To reduce the risk of skin cancers like melanoma, prevent burning, and avoid premature ageing in our skin. Prolonged exposure to harmful UV rays without protection can contribute to all of the above, but this isn't a fear-mongering article; it's an advice article. So let's get back to why we're here.

Five things you might not have known about sun protection or alternatively, five facts you can share on holiday to impress your family:

3. Medication can cause increased sun sensitivity

If you're taking medication, using a new facewash, or have any form of skin routine, check the labels for increased sensitivity to the sun. It may mean you need to use a high SPF or take precautions when outside.

Increased sun sensitivity can cause reactions like swelling or a higher risk of burning and sun damage. Speak to your GP or book an appointment through your Simplyhealth plan for advice and reassurance.

4. Suncream can go out of date

Yes, suncream has an expiry date, and it's worth checking your old bottles before your next trip because the date is there for a reason. The ingredients in suncream can become unstable when past their expiry date, causing a potential loss in effectiveness and ability to protect your skin.

As well as looking at the date, check the consistency, texture, and smell. If it differs from when you purchased the suncream, it's time to head to the shop. If the expiry date has rubbed off and you know you've had the suncream for a while, we recommend getting a new bottle even if the consistency is still the same. It's not worth the risk.

5. Although unlikely, you can get sunburnt through glass and windows

Regular glass filters out 97% of UVB rays, much like SPF 30 suncream, so whilst it's unlikely you'll get burnt through glass, it's not impossible. The risk of burning can also depend on factors like the type of glass, the time of day, and the length of exposure time.

Windscreens on cars provide high protection against UVB rays, but it's still worth wearing suncream, especially on long drives. UV rays can also damage your eyes, much like sunburn damages your skin, so you should wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes.

Enjoy the outdoors and always protect yourself

If you’re heading out this summer, our advice would be to apply a broad-spectrum suncream liberally to exposed areas of the skin and then reapply every two hours. If you've been swimming, showering, or towelled yourself down, reapply it immediately to get maximum protection against UV rays.

Remember:

1. Use a high SPF for the best protection

2. Look for “broad spectrum” or a UVA seal with 4 or more stars.

3. Check the side effects of medication and any skincare routine

4. Make sure your suncream is still in-date and effective

5. Avoid sitting directly in the sun for long periods, even indoors!

If you are concerned about anything related to your skin, whether it’s sunburn and blisters or a mole or unusual mark on your skin, it’s worth getting it checked. You can book an appointment with a GP through your Simplyhealth plan without any additional cost, even when abroad. Head to your online account to get started. 

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