by Suz Neave

Created on: June 20, 2010

Living in a tropical climate, keeping healthy in the sun is a daily consideration of mine. People who have a tan are always perceived as being “healthy” looking. However, with over 2 million people being diagnosed with skin cancer annually, I think it is safe to say that looks can be deceiving!

It is not just the skin that is at risk from the sun, our internal organs are affected as well as the result of overheating and dehydration. So whether you are planning a holiday involving lying on a beach or actively work outdoors preparation for being out in the sun must be the first step.

Sufficient Protection

Firstly, your skin. If you are outdoors most days, it is good to get into the habit of applying suncream first thing in the morning, along with brushing your hair and cleaning your teeth. I use a moisturizer that has a suncream incorporated into it. Rarely, do these types of products have a protection factor of more than 15 SPF (sun protection factor), so they will not protect you for the whole day. General suncreams have a range of protection, but unless you are specifically trying to get a tan, it is always best to apply a sunblock (SPF 30 or 40). Which ever SPF factor you choice, you must reapply on a regular basis throughout the day. This is important if when creams state that they are water resistant, particularly if you are in and out of the water all day.

If you are snorkeling, it is a good idea to wear a t-shirt or a rash-vest to protect your back. When you are floating in cool water, mesmerized by the activity beneath you, it is easy to forget that you are fully exposed to the sun.

If your skin does become burnt, in addition to applying a aftersun cream, a good tip is to cover the affected area with the gel from an Aloe Vera leaf. Applied over a couple of days also helps prevent the skin from blistering.

Next, your eyes. Our eyes are very sensitive organs, unlike our skin they are not able develop a certain amount of protection. They are therefore, more at risk from the sun’s rays than any other part of our body. It is a good idea to wear good quality sunglasses, even on cloudy days. Sunglasses filter out UV rays and allow less light to reach the eyes, reducing the risk of irreversible damage. In addition to sunglasses, it is always a good idea to wear a hat with a wide brim. This not only protects your eyes but also your face and neck.

HYDRATION

When we are out in the sun, the heat will cause our bodies to sweat in an attempt to cool itself. Particularly in a humid climate, it is not easy to realize that your body is dehydrating. It is always a good idea to drink water throughout a normal day, but when in the sun it is important that the additional loss of water it replaced regularly.

It is also important to remember that alcohol has a dehydrating effect on the body and therefore drinking in the sun at a beach party will increase the risk of dehydration.

Whether you work involves being out in the sun all day or you are on holiday it is important to remember that prevention is far better than cure.

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