Sun Protection
Many go abroad to get a tan and spend hours lying in the sun yet it is important to protect yourself adequately as over-exposure to the sun can cause sunburn. The immediate affects of sunburn can include pain, swelling and blistering with long term effects including wrinkles, permanent skin damage and the increased risk of cancer. In order to avoid sunburn which could spell disaster for any holiday there are simple steps that can be taken.
Firstly, try to avoid the sun between the hours of 10am and 2pm when the suns rays are at their most intense and harmful. It is also important to find the right type of sun block, make sure that the factor you chose is effective for your skin type and age and make sure you buy a waterproof version if you intend to go in and out of the water often. Make sure you apply sunscreen liberally around 15 minutes before you step outside, make sure you reapply regularly and take care not to miss areas such as lips, feet and palms of hands. It is also important to wear sunglasses that protect from both UVA and UBA rays as well as wearing a wide brimmed hat.
It is also essential to keep babies out of the sun, make sure they are well covered in loose, cool clothing and that they are kept in the shade. If you do experience sunburn on holiday, it is then important to stay out of the sun completely, take a cool not cold bath, pat skin dry and use a good after sun or sunburn remedy as well as keeping skin well moisturised.