Family Sun Care Tips

With summer pretty much upon us, and the temperature skyrocketing into the 90s, we feel it’s time to give you some advice on the sun that doesn’t just apply to your roof!  We often talk about the effect solar energy can have on your family’s life, but here are some tips for keeping your actual family safe in the hot weather this summer…

 

• Don't skimp on the sun lotion!  Apparently an average sized adult should use five or six 7oz bottles of sun lotion during a two-week holiday if it has been applied properly and regularly.
• Applying ‘properly’ requires about 35ml or 1oz of lotion to be used, and re-application should happen at least once that day (more if necessary).
• Many people receive most of their UV exposure whilst on vacation, but it is still very important to put lotion on every day, especially if you are spending time outside with your family.
• Take sunburn seriously!  Burning your skin is no laughing matter, especially if the burnt person is a child.  Though it can sometimes result in a tan, sunburn is terrible for your skin, and as well as being painful at the time, it will lead to wrinkles and aged skin.
• Don’t assume you are protected behind glass.  A normal window glass blocks out almost all UVB, but can allow through as much as 60-70 per cent of UVA rays.
• Tight-weave clothing can be very effective at protecting against UV, but be careful if you go swimming with your T-shirt on.  Any kind of wet fabric is going to let through more UV rays than dry fabric and thus could lead to burning of the covered area.  Dark fabrics offer the best protection, so opt for those if at all possible.
• Cover your head!  Sunburn can lead to migraines and other harmful side effects aside from sunburn; so wear a hat to protect your head!
• Enjoy yourself! J