The weather might not know it yet, but it’s almost Summer! I know it’s true the temperature doesn’t really get very high here in the UK, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays! If your sun care often slips, learn why it’s important here.
Why is it important?
The sun emits two different types of UV radiation, UVA and UVB. UV radiation is the leading cause of skin cancer, so it’s absolutely vital that you keep your skin protected.
UVA is what can causes premature aging and wrinkling of the skin, and there is research to suggest it can play a role in causing basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. UVA radiation is able to pass through glass, so it will get through your car windows.
UVB does not pass through glass. UVB radiation is what causes sunburn and is more closely linked with the development of skin cancer and melanoma.
How do I protect my skin fully?
You should be using sun cream every day, even when it’s cloudy, because the sun is always emitting this radiation. Make sure you choose a cream with UVA and UVB protection, such as that from Green People, and which has an SPF protection of at least 30. This will ensure protection from both sunburn and cancer, whereas some sun lotion will only prevent sunburn.
You should apply a healthy amount of sunscreen about 30 minutes before you go outside, and it should be the last thing you put on your skin. Reapply every 2 hours, or every hour if you are swimming or sweating.
The best protection is prevention. It is recommended that you limit your sun exposure between 10am and 4pm, when the sun is at it’s highest and the rays are the most intense. A trick to help you know when you should be out of the sun is if your shadow is shorter than you – find shade!
You also need to keep your eyes protected, make sure your sunglasses have 99%-100% UV absorption.
Definitely stay away from sun beds. For a natural, safe tan try a self tanning lotion or oil, like those from Tan Organic.
Our Range
You don’t have to compromise your ethics to protect your skin fully. We have a great range of natural and organic sun care from brands like Green People, Jason and Organii.
Our sun creams offer full protection from UVA and UVB radiation, and there are a range of different SPFs to choose from for the whole family, as well as specific creams for your face.
Please don’t forget to keep your skin protected from the sun this summer!