Be Safe in the Sun

Floral dip hem dress, Playsuit & Sunglasses - Urban Outfitters & Sandals - Topshop

 Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK , as over exposure to sunlight has been scentifically proven to increase the risk of causing damage to your skin. Since 2011, 115,000 were diagnosed with cancer in the UK and more than 13,000 of those cancers were found to Malignant Melanoma. Sadly as a resort of this on average each year 2,000 people die from this dreadful skin disease.

Unfortunately those  who are at risk of skin cancer have a family  history of  cancer or they have fair skin , sensitive skin or moles and freckles, which tend to burn in the sun. If you fall under any of these categories it’s important to take some simple measures when preparing to go on holiday, which will help protect your skin from the dangerous UV rays.

Spend time in the shade between 11:00 - 15:00 – Whether you’re on a city break or relaxing by the beach or pool it’s important to take the time out of the sun by cooling down in the shade, as this will prevent you from getting burnt. Aim to take cover under the poolside umbrella or beach parasol, as this will be a safe location for you to reapply your sun cream as you’re away from the harmful sunrays. However if you’re exploring around mainland areas, cities or towns aim to schedule some breaks within your itinerary and head to a little café as this will give you the time to repose and get away from the heat.  

Make sure you never burn – Pack plenty of sun cream, which is for your skin type whether you’re fair, medium or dark aim to get an SPF around 30-50SPF with a good UV rating.  Research has proven that some of the high end and high street skin manufactures sun creams do not protect the skin correctly in from UV rays so do not be fooled by the brand name or price.

 Aim to cover up in the sun  - Whilst being out and about in the sun it’s important to wear appropriate clothing, which not only keep you cool from the heat but most importantly will help create the barrier between you and an unwanted sunburn. However by selecting some sensible wardrobes you'll be able to stop your back, shoulders and face from getting burnt. 

Gentlemen - Aim to pack lose material clothing as this will prevent you from breaking out in a sweat, loose cottont-shirts are perfect for battling against a heat and will help keep your shoulders and back covered. 

Ladies – There’s various stylish summery pieces , which can help protect parts of your body from the sun aim to pick lightweight tops and cover ups which you can take off when it’s safe. Bardot tops and kimonos are ideal in warmer climates as not only will help give you some outfit variation but most importantly they’ll keep your shoulders and back covered from the sun. 

Swimwear - When it comes to swim wear it can be quiet difficult to find a piece which not only fits correctly but aims to cover up the areas of your body which are at risk of exposure.High waisted bikinis and one piece swimwear is ideal for those of you who have freckles, moles or sensitive skin as it will keep the majority of your back and chest covered.

Accessories – Hats, sunglasses , sarongs or  scarfs are essential to pack when it comes to any trip abroad as not only will these outfit extras give a pop of colour to your look but most importantly they help cover up your eyes and skin from the sun. 

Remember to take extra care with children – If you’re going on a family holiday make sure you pack plenty of gear which will protect your little ones from the sunshine .

Swimwear choices   - Many high street and online retailers have created affective swimwear to protect children from the sun as the mini surfer look is ideal to protect your tots back, shoulders and chest from the sun. 

Sun cream for kids – Most sun cream brands such as Nivea and Garnier have a children’s selection however please be aware that even though they’re aimed  for the younger generation it may not be the best product to protect your child from getting burnt.

Sun damage doesn’t just happened when you’re abroad in the sun . It can happen when you’re not expecting it. So remember to be safe and keep covered up.  If you would like further information please ask seek medical advice from your GP and check out the  Cancer Research website.