How to Avoid Sunburn

We like to think that you listen to our sun safety ramblings and keep up with your sun cream applications but we do understand that sometimes you can get caught out and end up rocking the lobster look. If your summer holiday is coming up and you're determined to make this year the one where you don't return home with a peeling back, this guide will help you to stay out in the sun, safely.

Firstly, what is sunburn?

Sunburn is a radiation burn that affects the skin's living tissue. UV rays from the sun cause harm to our skin cells so when the skin is exposed to sunlight for a period of time it goes into defence mode. It does so by stimulating the production of melanin (the skin's pigment), hence why you get a tan. But the skin can only do so much on its own and if you're not protecting it from the outside, you will burn.

Don't go out in the sun without this checklist!

Rather than lecture you about sun safety, here is your sun safety checklist. DO make sure your sun block protects against UVA and UVB rays. DO apply at least half an hour before heading outside. DO apply a generous, liberal amount all over the body, remembering to cover those easy-to-miss spots including the neck, hands and feet. DO reapply at least every 2 hours and after swimming. DO check any medication you are on to see if they can make the skin more photosensitive. Drugs such as tetracylines can make you more vulnerable to sunlight.

DON'T reapply when the rest of your friends or family are. Every skin has a different burn rate, so if you are paler than your companions you need to be reapplying far more regularly. DON'T rely on the shade. It will give the skin a bit of respite but you still need to use your SPF.

For any advice on staying safe this summer, call our skincare experts on 0113 282 7744.

Written for you by: Ellie, Face the Future