& KEEPING SAFE IN THE SUN SKIN CONDITIONS

Experiencing troubling skin conditions other than acne? Visit your pharmacist in the first instance for over-the-counter remedies.

Experiencing problems with your skin is no fun, but there are some simple ways to avoid or minimise issues like acne and sunburn…

Unfortunately, spots or acne don’t always stop during the early teenage years. Post-teen acne is really common, with up to 50% of adults experiencing it, which can lead to the sufferer feeling self-conscious.

Causes and cures

Contrary to popular belief, spots are rarely caused by poor hygiene; they’re usually due to hormone imbalances. Your skin produced more oil causing pores to become blocked. Monthly hormonal changes mean that around 80% of adult acne sufferers are women. While spots and acne are normal and tend to reduce as you get order, there are things you can do to help keep them at bay or at least reduce the severity:

■ Keep your skin clean and take make-up off at night.

■ Use washes and topical creams designed for the face.

■ Drink lots of water to keep your skin clear and hydrated.

■ Visit your GP who can prescribe pills or creams to either deal with hormone imbalances or treat the spots themselves.

■ A pharmacist can provide advice on appropriate overthe-counter acne treatments –most even have a consulting room, so you can discuss the problem in private.

Keeping Safe In The Sun

For most, there’s nothing better than feeling the sun on your skin. Your body releases the ‘happiness’ hormone serotonin, which lifts your mood and increases your energy levels. But we all know that too much sun is dangerous, as ultra-violet (UV) rays can invisibly damage your skin. These UV rays – also emitted on sunbeds in intense doses – are there even if the sun doesn’t feel hot, and they cause sun damage, which can lead to skin cancer. If you want to stay safe, follow our top five tips:

1. Stay in the shade from 11am–3pm when the rays are strongest.

2. Try to avoid letting your skin get burnt.

3. Wear protective clothing, like a hat, sunglasses, or a T-shirt.

4. Use sunscreen of at least factor 30 with a five-star UVB rating.

5. If you want a tan, get a spray tan instead of using a sunbed or lying out in the sun.