Professor Jayne Lawrence of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society gave an insightful presentation to Travel Medicine Professionals recently. Here are just a few of her insights. You will need more information and advice to help ensure your holiday is safe and fun, but remember sun protection starts at home. Ask your local Pharmacist or travel health expert for more detailed professional advice. The photograph shows the effect of aging experienced by a long-distance lorry driver in America. Americans drive on the right-hand side of the road!

Sun Protection?

At the time of writing it is March in the UK. You are not going on holiday until the summer and even then, you may have a staycation. Who needs sun protection now or in the near future? Have a look at our driver again.

So, do you need educating?

To start, what type of sunlight do we need protection against?

Two types of ultraviolet (UV) light reach the earth. UVA is associated with skin ageing. UVB is mainly responsible for sunburn. Both UVA & UVB have links with skin cancer, especially UVB.

We need to protect ourselves against both UVA & UVB. UVC is another type of UV radiation but is completely absorbed by the ozone layer and atmosphere.

Sunscreen Behaviour

Most people use too little and apply too infrequently.

So, how much and when to use? The advice is to apply 3 tablespoons of sunscreen to your entire body 30 min before going outside. Yes, that is a lot, probably more than you are used to using.

Reapply every 2 hours, or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. Yes, apply again and again, more than you think and probably do.

We are not retailers of sunscreens, but our advice is your usual one bottle of sunscreen will not be enough. Pharmacies will offer the best advice on what is best for you. Ask to see the Pharmacist or talk to your travel health expert for more professional advice.

Some other tips.

Check both the UVA and SPF rating for your sunscreen. Again, ask your Pharmacist for advice.

Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months.

Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen such as a Sun Protection Factor or SPF of 15 or higher every day, not just on sunny days or holidays.

For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 with 4-5-star rating.

Enjoy the sun and be safe. Don’t age before your time.