Don’t let sunburn catch you out. Be sun safe!
As temperatures begin to rise and the region experiences an eagerly awaited taste of summer weather, your local NHS Health Improvement Team is here to remind you about the importance of staying safe in the sun.
This time of year naturally sees more of us exposing our bare skin to the suns harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Whether it’s a day trip to the beach, a family barbecue, a kick around in the park or an afternoon of gardening, it is important to not let sunburn catch you out, to know your skin type and to protect yourself from the sun.
Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK and the number of people who develop it is increasing. It is important to enjoy the sun safely. Whether you're at home or abroad this summer, use shade, clothing and at least SPF15 sunscreen to protect your skin.
There are two types of skin cancer. These are non melanoma and malignant melanoma. Checking your own skin on a regular basis is important. If you find anything strange that doesn’t go away after four weeks, or if existing marks and moles get bigger, change shape or colour, you should see your GP to get checked out.
The Health Improvement Team has the following advice for staying safe:
- Stay out of the sun between 11am and 3pm
- Wear a high sunscreen (at least SPF15)
- Cover up with a t-shirt, hat and sunglasses
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid using sunbeds
Babies and children need extra protection from the sun because their skin is delicate and easily damaged. You will not see the damage immediately because skin cancer can take years to develop. But children who are exposed to too much sun now are storing up problems for the future. Sunburn during childhood can dramatically increase the risk of skin cancer later on in life.
For further information about staying safe in the sun, plus the key signs and symptoms of skin cancer, visit www.healthimprovementteam.co.uk/besunsafe. This website is full of up-to-date information covering young children and babies, primary school children, teenagers as well as generic skin cancer advice and guidance. Downloadable resources, child activity sheets and interactive videos to watch can also be found on the Be Sun Safe website.
Remember: Whether you are home or abroad this year. Don’t let sunburn catch you out. Know your skin type and protect yourself from the sun.
For further details visit www.healthimprovementteam.co.uk/besunsafe.
