Sunshine advice

Sunshine or more specifically ultraviolet (UV) light can, and does cause damage to skin. Apart from sunburn ultraviolet radiation also speeds up the skin’s ageing process and also increases the incidence of skin cancers.

Because the effects may be cumulative it is particularly important to protect children from the effects of UV radiation. Children under 12 months old should be kept out of the sun altogether.

Some suggestions to reduce the risk of sun damage:
• Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) greater than 15. Reapply regularly, particularly after swimming.
• Be careful whilst swimming, you can burn very quickly because the cooling effect of the water tends to make you forget you are exposing yourself UV radiation.
• Avoid the midday sun (11am to 3pm).
• Do not allow yourself to burn
• Cover your self with loose cotton clothing (some of which now have SPF ratings), wear a wide brimmed hat, and wear good quality sunglasses as bright sunlight may also cause long term damage to your eyes.
• Remember to also drink plenty of cool liquids.

Further information

Department of Health

This article published on
08 August 2005

Next review date 8/1/2013

Categorie(s)

Skin, hair and bones
Travel problems
Treatment and drugs

Areaof the body

Skin, hair and bones

Male or female?
Both