Sun Protection

Summer has definitely arrived as it always does in Ireland during the run-up to the Leaving Certificate exams. It is a rare commodity in Ireland and sometimes in our excitement we forget that the sun, while welcome, can do untold damage to the skin. By following a few simple tips you can make sure your skin stays protected, unblemished and younger looking for longer!

Sun Cream

Everyone knows they should wear sun cream but where people make mistakes is the level of the protection, the reapplication of the cream and how much to use in the first place. Dermatologists suggest a small egg-sized quantity for each body part. The minimum factor an adult should consider is 15, but for children increase that to 30. Apply cream at least 15 minutes before you go out into the sun and then reapply every two hours.

We should wear sun cream even on a cloudy day but be especially mindful when you see the sun shining!

Sunglasses

People often forget that sunglasses actually protect the eyes and are not just a fashion accessory. The same is true for your children – buy a good pair with UV protection and insist that they wear them in bright sunshine. Basically you should be wearing sunglasses from April through until September.

Shade

Even in Ireland try to seek the shade. Try not to be out in the midday sun if at all possible. Basically between the hours of 11am and 4pm on a bright sunny day your skin can be affected. So try and stay indoors or seek shade if outside.

Clothes

Cover up. The best materials to wear are linen, cotton or hemp. Dark clothes are more effective as well. Try and avoid wearing worn clothes in the sun or stretchy garments as they will offer little protection. The same is true for wet clothing – the sun can easily penetrate through wet fabric to your skin.

Hat

There are loads of lovely hats to purchase and so there is no excuse not to invest in a style that suits you. Straw? Colourful? With a ribbon? All the above sound good but look for one with a wide brim to offer real protection to your face.

Enjoy the sun!