SUN SAFETY..

How can I protect my skin from the sun?

Nothing can completely undo sun damage, although the skin can sometimes repair itself. So, it's never too late to begin protecting yourself from the sun. Follow these tips to help prevent sun-related skin problems:

• Apply suncream, with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or greater, 30 minutes before sun exposure and then every couple of hours thereafter.
• Select cosmetic products and contact lenses that offer UV protection.
• Wear sunglasses with total UV protection.
• Wear wide-brimmed hats, long sleeved shirts and trousers.
• Avoid direct sun exposure as much as possible during peak UV radiation hours, between 11am and 3pm.
• Perform skin self-checks regularly to become familiar with existing growths and to notice any changes or new growths.
• Around 23% of a person's lifetime sun exposure is acquired before the age of 18. As a parent, be a good role model and encourage skin cancer prevention habits in your children.
• Avoid sunbeds.