The Sensible Approach To Sunbathing

UVB rays are responsible for sunburn. They penetrate the epidermis and damage living cells.

UVA rays penetrate the epidermis to damage collagen and elastin fibers causing premature ageing of the skin. 

Although the damaging effects of the sun's rays upon our skin and the incidence of skin cancer is on the increase, people still feel more confident with a natural tan and often fail to take a sensible approach to sunbathing, or use appropriate skin care protection. Two things to take into consideration when choosing the right sun protection product is its star rating and sun protection factor (SPF).

The amount of protection provided against UVA rays is indicated by a 1-4 'star' rating scale. Three stars *** indicates that the product will provide three-quarters of the protection from UVA rays compared to UVB. A rating of two stars ** indicates that the product will offer half (i.e. 2/4) of the protection against UVA than is provided against UVB. This may be technical to get your head around, but it is absolutely necessary in the prevention of burning.

Now we come to the SPF. The SPF number can easily be identified on sunscreen products and will usually fall within the range of 2-30. This indicates how much longer than normal a person wearing this particular protection may stay out in the sun before the risk of burning. Remember that SPF numbers only relate to UVB rays and do not indicate the protection provided against UVA - the main cause of premature ageing.

Follow my simple tips to determine the SPF required for your skin type.

Skin Type - Your skin tans easily but often becomes sore during the initial stages of sunbathing.

Use - SPF 2. 

This sun protection factor allows you to stay in the sun twice as long before burning.

Skin Type - You have fair skin which tends to go pink after 15 minutes. 

Use - SPF 10

The application of this sun protection factor means that skin will take 10 times longer (150 minutes) before burning occurs - a great tip to remember considering that fair skins are more at risk of burning in comparison to dark skins.

Skin Type - You have pale skin which easily burns - particularly over boney areas.

Use - SPF 25+

This particular sun protection factor is a total sun block providing complete protection when applied regularly. 

*Top Tip: The intensity of the sun increases from the salt in sea water, placing you at serious risk of burning. Always ensure that your skin is protected by applying sunscreen before and after swimming.