Be safe in the sun

Some exposure to sunlight has health benefits, such as through stimulating the production of Vitamin D by the body (this aids the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, which are essential for healthy bones). Vitamin D is available through nutritional sources, but this does not always provide enough. There is also evidence that exposure to sunlight improves mental wellbeing and may be linked to a reduction in the risk of developing multiple sclerosis. However the detrimental effects of excessive exposure to sunlight are serious. In the short-term, there is the risk of sunburn, which can be painful and if severe enough considered a first-degree burn. In the long term, there is an increased risk of developing skin cancer, which can be fatal.

Risks of exposure to too much ultraviolet radiation

There are a number of negative side effects that can result from spending to much time in the sun, or indeed in a solarium. These include:

• Deterioration of the skin, including premature ageing and loss of elasticity.
• Rashes, itchiness and dryness.
• Damage to the eyes.
• Sunburn.
• Skin cancer.
  

People whose pattern of sun exposure has been intermittent are at an increased risk of developing melanoma or basal cell carcinoma. Those who have more continuous exposure (such as outdoor workers) are at an increased risk of developing squamous cell carcinoma. Evidence also shows that overexposure to sunlight in childhood and adolescence is an important risk factor in developing skin cancer.   People of all races and skin colors can develop skin cancer, but some are more susceptible than others. If you have one or more of the following risk factors, you should be especially vigilant about reducing your UV exposure:

• Fair skin
• Blue or green eyes
• Blond or red hair
• Freckles
• Moles (especially 50 or more)
• Family or personal history of skin cancer.
  
  UV radiation from the sun is especially damaging under certain conditions, including the following:

• from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• at latitudes nearer the equator
• at higher altitudes
• when there is no thick cloud cover (and clouds only block 20% of UV rays)
• near water, snow, or other highly reflective surfaces.
  

Sun damage accumulates over time, so if you find yourself in these conditions often, consistent protection is a must. Remember that besides skin cancer, the sun can also cause cataracts and other eye problems, a weakened immune system, unsightly skin spots and wrinkles. 

What is the most effective way to protect myself?

The most effective way actually is to simply stay out of the summer sun in the middle of the day. Here are some more tips to protect yourself:

• Wear sunglasses that include a warranty stating they provide 99-100% UVA and UVB (broad-spectrum) protection.
• Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin 15 minutes before venturing outdoors. The sunscreen container should specify a sun protection factor (SPF) rating of 15 or above and should state that it provides broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) protection. Lotion- or cream-based sunscreens tend to adhere to the skin longer, thus providing better protection.
• PABA-free sunscreens are recommended for persons with sensitive skin.
• Depending on your activity (swimming, sweating), sunscreen should be re-applied at least every two hours.
• The SPF number on the sunscreen indicates how many times longer, under ideal conditions, a person can stay out in the sun without beginning to turn red in comparison with the amount of time totally unprotected skin would start to burn. Research indicates these numbers are sometimes overstated.
• Avoid tanning salons, beds, and sunlamps.
  
  

Do children need extra protection?

Yes. Up to 50% of an individual's lifetime contact with sunshine occurs before adulthood. Studies also show that the more incidents of sunburn children have, the higher likelihood that they will develop skin cancer decades later. So it is especially critical to protect them from the sun. Here are a few tips:

• Babies 6 months of age or younger should be kept completely out of the direct sun at all times. In addition, sunscreen shouldn't be applied to babies this age.
• For children over 6 months, apply sunscreen every time they go outside.
• Children's swimsuits made from sun-protective fabric and designed to cover the child from the neck to the knees are getting more and more popular. They are now available in most of the well known sea side resorts.