The formation of pigmentation in the skin is one of the body’s natural ways of protecting itself from the harmful radiation of the sun. It takes a few days, and during that time, your skin is more or less unprotected. Many holidays have been ruined by people having too quickly gone sun tanning right from the first day and then having to spend time in the shade or indoors.

The ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun consists of both long wave (UVA) and shot wave (UVB) radiation.

UVA radiation stimulates the pigment in the skin generating a protective brown surface. However, high exposure to UVA rays can cause burns and may also contribute to the development of cancer.

UVB radiation also increases the amount of pigmentation in the skin, but it also results in an inflammation which, in mild cases, can lead to itching, pain and reddening. This leads to a thickening of the skin which actually offers better protection than the formation of pigment itself. Unfortunately, UVB radiation also causes changes in the skin cells, which can lead to skin cancer.

It is rather common to start off with a visit to a tanning salon before going on a holiday to a sunny location. However, the tan you get at a salon offers a relatively poor level of protection since the lights give off mostly UVA radiation; we turn brown, but we get none of the important thickening of the skin.

Sunscreen Lotions
A sunscreen lotion is a chemical or physical filter. Chemical filters are absorbed by the skin, while physical filters place a reflective protective layer on top of the skin. Small children should preferably use physical sunscreens.
The effect of a sunscreen is stated with a sun protection factor (SPF). A lotion with e.g., an SPF of 8 means that one can go out into the sun about 8 times longer before the sun turns red as compared to being completely unprotected. Unfortunately, there are different ways that manufacturers define SPF. That is why lotions made by different manufacturers - but with the same SPF - may not all have the same protective effect.
We all have different levels of sensitivity to sunlight, and furthermore the intensity increases the closer you are to the equator. The same applies to being at high elevations, being near a lake or at the beach. Therefore, we may need lotions with different protective factors depending on where we are located.
Also remember to use a sunscreen that is not too old.

Remember that while you certainly can spend more time in the sun if you use a sunscreen, the risk of certain skin cancers - above all malignant melanoma - remains. It makes no difference whether you “tolerate” sun better than others.
If you have large, irregular liver spots - known as naevi - you should be modest in your sun tanning, since malignant melanoma can stem from these.


Tips for Sun Worshippers!

• Your sunscreen is most effective if you rub it on about an hour before you head out into the sun.
• Avoid the sun between 11 am and 2 pm when the radiation is at its greatest.
• Protect your scalp and face from strong sunlight.
• Place sun stick on your nose, ears and shoulders as they are more exposed to the sun than are other parts of the body.
• Take a walk! Be active! Your tan will be more even and the risk of sun damage is reduced.
• Zinc paste is best if the sun is really strong.
• Be cautious in increasing your time in the sun so that your skin does not become red or burnt.
• UV light penetrates through water. Have a T-shirt on if you are snorkelling.
• Apply a generous amount of sunscreen several times per day, above all when you have been swimming or sweating profusely.

Sunglasses
are not just a fashion statement; they protect your eyes from the harmful radiation of the sun. However, many cheap sunglasses lack UV protection and can instead be directly harmful by causing the pupil to dilate and letting in the UV rays that damage the retina. When buying sunglasses - ask an optician!
Don’t forget as well to protect your children’s eyes.


Children
Infants should never lie in direct sunlight. They should furthermore be protected by thin cotton clothing and hats, even in the shade.
A parasol over a pram offers shade, but remember that it can also be very warm in a pram.

Children with thin and sensitive skin should naturally be protect extra carefully. Never let your children turn red or get burned by the sun.
Apply sunscreen - regularly and abundantly - with a waterproof sunscreen (minimum SPF of 15-20). Let them wear a T-shirt, especially if they are out in or at the water in strong sunlight.


Keep in Mind...

• UV light penetrates clouds.
• In the shade under a parasol, you are still exposed to approximately 50% of the UV radiation.
• White sand reflects approximately 25% of the solar radiation.
• Some medicines, perfumes and aftershave in combination with exposure to sunlight may result in allergic reactions.
• Excessive sun tanning makes the skin age more quickly. One good example of this can be seen in the weathered face of a fisherman.