Staying safe in the sun

Mairead Robinson stresses both at home and abroad, it is vital to protect your skin from sun damage.

It is that time of year again, and we have certainly had a real taste of the summer sun these past few weeks. It is actually frightening how many people don’t see the need to protect their skin from exposure to the sun when at home, and they think they only need to do so when on holiday in somewhere like the Mediterranean. I was pretty shocked to learn that recent research from Lloyds Pharmacy shows that only 24per cent of adults claim to apply SPF daily, and Irish males make up a much smaller percentage – only 13per cent.

Everybody should be aware now that SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is vital for everyone and protecting your skin from sun all year around with the proper sun care is extremely important. It reduces your risk of skin cancer, protects you against sunburn, helps you avoid inflammation and redness and can prevent the early onset of wrinkles and fine lines. As women are more inclined to use skin creams that contain SPF, it is often men who are most vulnerable. However the SPF in make-up and foundations is never enough to protect from sun damage. Meanwhile men with traditionally short hair cuts who spend time out in the garden should wear a hat and apply sun cream, and don’t forget to cover the ears, as they are very vulnerable and painful when burnt.

Many Irish families are good at protecting their young children from getting burnt, however the same care and diligence does not always extend to the rest of the family. The reality is that we are all vulnerable and we all should be using sun cream, and also reapplying it every few hours if we are spending the day outside either at the beach or in the garden.

The good news is that there are many excellent products out there at very affordable prices to suit every type of skin. From babies and young children, to those with sensitive skin and skin allergies to those who enjoy outdoor sports such as tennis or skiing there are products to suit all, both for the face and the body. In fact current research advises people to apply SPF every day, even when it is not sunny, as the rays can penetrate

There are many excellent skin care products now available when it comes to protecting your skin from sun damage, and one of favourites is Australian brand Bondi Sands. Home to the sand, sea and sun, Bondi Sands are no stranger to the damaging effects of UVA and UVB rays and the importance of protecting your skin with saily sunscreen application. The latest additions to their fragrance free range, including lightweight face products that can be worn alone or under makeup, delivering up to 72 hours of hydration for nourished protected skin. The Australians certainly know how to protect fair skin when on the beach, the barbeque and just out-and-about in the sunshine.

Lloyds pharmacies carry an excellent range of suncare, Solero which is available across 88 of their pharmacies nationwide, and also through the Lloyds

Pharmacy Ireland app. It is highly affordable and high quality, water resistant, fast-absorbing, non-staining and easy to apply. In other words, it ticks all the boxes! It is dermatologically tested and approved and the range offers sun protection for all skin types, so the whole family can stay safe in the sun.

For those with sensitive skin, Eucerin is a key element of their skin care. And when it comes to sun protection, it comes up trumps again. I particularly like their high protection Photoaging Control with advanced spectral technology. I love the fact that this product contains hyaluronic acid, so as well as protecting you from sun damage, is actively anti-aging in helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

And when it comes to protecting the whole family, specifically the little ones, NIVEA is a firm family favourite. Their kids protect and care products are developed specifically for children’s skin. It contains 50+ very high protection and is extra water resistant. Children particularly love the ‘spray gun’ and so will cover themselves and others with high protection moisturising formula specifically for their delicate skin.

Products come in a variety of sizes for the whole family.

And finally when it comes to protecting your skin from sun damage, it is important to remember your nose! There is nothing worse than after you take off your sunglasses, finding you have white rings around your eyes (panda in reverse) and a red nose – not a flattering look at all. Use you lip stick for lips to run down your nose – a tip once given me by a skiing friend who managed to maintain a smooth softly tanned skin despite her travels and adventures.

Since our summer seems to be shaping up pretty much like 2022, it is vital to stock up on lots of good quality skin protection, and remember to reapply every couple of hours, especially after swimming. Ideally wear a hat too. Stay safe in the sun.