The UK is currently forecast to bask in glorious sunshine for the next few days in the form of a heatwave, mainly affecting the south east. Of course most people will want to make the most of the sunshine by going out and sunbathing or even just going for a walk. This is all good but the Sun can be dangerous if precautions aren't taken which I'm sure many of you will know about (or you should do anyway!)
Sunburn
Many people, particularly girls in their teens, seem to brag about going out and tanning but getting sunburnt in the process. This is totally not something to brag about as the consequences can be very serious! UV rays from the Sun can penetrate deep into the skin and can damage cells which could potentially cause them to become cancerous. Being sunburnt causes the top layers of the skin to release chemicals that cause blood vessels to to swell and leak fluid which can cause swelling and blistering. Once you've been sunburnt, the skin repairs itself by peeling which removes the damaged cells but permanent damage may have been done.
Between the hours of 11am and 3pm when the Sun is at it's highest in the sky and therefore the hottest, you should take cover in the shade. I have to admit that I find this unrealistic as I'm not usually that much of an early bird so this would be the time I would want to sunbathe however, I use plenty of sun lotion which I reapply frequently and I don't spend the full 4 hours in the Sun, perhaps just two. Children shouldn't really be out at this time but if they wear a T-shirt along with a hat as well as sun lotion, then the child should be sufficiently protected.
Sun lotion should always be used when sunbathing or even just going out for a walk; just because you're moving doesn't mean you can't burn. I personally don't put it on my face if I'm wearing make-up as my foundation does contain SPF15 (sun protection factor 15) and I think sun lotion makes make-up look greasy. If I'm sunbathing bare faced then of course I wear sun lotion. Sun lotion should have a minimum SPF of 15 and shouldn't be an oil as this doesn't offer as much protection as a cream. I have always used Nivea as I think this works a treat and I tend to use their invisible spray as I don't think the smell is as noticeable. Sun lotion should be reapplied every 2 hours when in the Sun as it comes off due to sweat or when rubbing on clothes. I always start off on a high SPF when I haven't been exposed to the Sun for a long time and then gradually reduce it, but not going any lower than SPF 15.
Hats and sunglasses are also a form of protection. I love wearing both of these items so this doesn't bother me so grab your favourite floppy hat and sunglasses and enjoy the Sun! Wear loose and light coloured clothes to keep you cooler, a black jumper in the Sun is a no from me!
Hydration
Hydration is a fundamental problem when it's warm. You should already be drinking 8 glasses of water daily and it should be even more when it's warmer as a lot of fluid will be lost in the form of sweat in the heat. The amount of water you should be having doesn't just come in the form of a glass of water but it can be found in many foods. Read my previous post about how to make sure you intake the recommended amount of water and what can happen if you don't reach this amount here. My personal favourite for summer is watermelon. I think it is so refreshing and hydrating and is so yummy! In the Sun, water and fruit juices should be chosen over caffeine-based drinks. If it's warm and you feel dizzy, have muscle cramps, headaches or vomiting then this is a sign of dehydration and overheating and if it continues to persist after drinking plenty of water, get in touch with your GP.
Food
Warm weather makes some people seem to suppress their appetite, including me, but eating regularly is still a must. Instead choose lighter options rather than heavier meals such as salads, which will also contribute to your daily water intake.
Remember these few simple rules and you'll be getting a tan and enjoying the sun safely in no time!
What other precautions can you add to the list? Are you enjoying the weather?
Great advice! Although most of us know about the dangers of the sun, not everyone protects themselves so it is important everyone is fully aware.
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Thanks for commenting! I agree, I think most people know about it but don't actually act on it x
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