We haven’t seen much of it to date, but the sun can still be a harmful force when you’re out and about this summer.
Obviously, the weather has not been very accommodating. Many people haven’t been able to get out into nature the way they have been in the past. That doesn’t mean they don’t have to worry about harmful UV rays, though, because it doesn’t have to be sunny for the effects of the sun to be felt. That’s where your sunscreen comes into play. According to Alberta Health Services, what’s not as well known is the math behind sun protection factor (SPF) numbers. Many people assume more is more, so they use a higher SPF sunscreen believing they’re getting stronger protection; however, that’s not quite how it works. The SPF of a sunscreen doesn’t refer to its strength, but rather to the amount of time it will (theoretically) protect you from UV rays. For example, if it takes 10 minutes for you to burn without applying sunscreen, applying sunscreen with SPF 15 puts your maximum sun exposure time at 150 minutes. Of course, that’s just an average. Everyone is different, and they will react differently to sunscreens, so it’s vital that people find the appropriate level of protection for them.
No one enjoys having sunburn. It’s painful and very uncomfortable. It makes something as routine as taking a shower unpleasant.
At minimum, sun exposure can cause dry skin and premature aging. At worst, it can lead to skin cancer, which accounts for one-third of all new cancer cases in Canada, according to AHS. An estimated 90 per cent of all skin cancers are associated with sun exposure.
Sunscreen is just one way to protect yourself from the sun.
Keeping protected from the sun is essential for everyone in the province this summer as they enjoy time spent outdoors. Whether or not you are hosting backyard barbecues or taking walks in the park, sun protection is always a good safety precaution.
The following tips can help prevent common sun problems:
• Cover up and choose clothing that is loose fitting, tightly woven and lightweight to avoid sunburn.
• Wear sunscreen. You should choose a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. If you spend most of your day outside, use an SPF 30. Sunscreen should be placed on the ears, chin and neck even while wearing a hat. Sunscreen should be reapplied after extended wear.
• Plan activities outside of 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. when ultraviolet (UV) rays are most powerful.
• Choose sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection that have even shading and medium to dark lenses.
Find shade to remain cool, comfortable and protected from the sun.
