Staying Sun-Safe: Sun Awareness Week

Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan may have just over 1,500 hours of sunshine per year, but staying sun safe is important.

Despite presenting us with some great opportunities to enjoy the coastal walks of the Vale or some of the green spaces within the city, the dangers of burning, excessive tanning and the additional risks that can arise on warm, sunny days are important to remember, identify and act upon.

Here are some tips and advice on how to stay sun safe this Sun Awareness Week and Skin Cancer Awareness Month…

1.  Check your skin regularly

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK and most skin cancer is caused by ultraviolet light (UV) damaging the DNA cells.

It is important that you carry our regular self-examinations of your skin, as early detection can reduce the risk of developing a larger, more serious skin cancer. For information on how to check your skin, please visit this British Association of Dermatologists webpage.

2.  Use a high protection sunscreen

Sunscreen helps to protect your skin against sunburn. Using a high protection sunscreen of at least SPF 30, but also having a high UVA protection, can help you to stay safe in the sun.

Ensure this is applied liberally and often; sweating, towelling and doing activities in the sun can cause the sunscreen to rub off, so ensure that you reapply regularly to exposed sites.

3.  Be mindful of sun damage to your skin

There are four types of sun damage; sun burn, skin ageing, hyperpigmentation and skin cancer and this can affect all skin types.

While lighter skin is likely to burn more quickly, those with darker skin are still at risk of sun damage. This fact sheet has been developed to offer sun advice for skin of colour, please click here to find out more.

4.     Stay hydrated

When enjoying the sun it is important to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids can help to ensure your body stays safe and healthy on hot days. Avoid caffeinated beverages, alcohol and extended periods in the sun as all of these things can contribute and amplify dehydration.

Drinking plenty of water and eating fruit and vegetables that are high in water can help to keep you hydrated and safe.

5.     Knowing the symptoms of heat related conditions

The sun can cause a series of different medical conditions to arise if you are not careful when enjoying warm days. Heat exhaustion is a condition that develops due to dehydration caused by exposure to high temperatures. Symptoms include, headache, clammy skin, dizziness and nausea.

Sunstroke is another big problem that can arise as a result of the body overheating on hot days. Symptoms of this include a temperature, altered mental state, nausea and dizziness.  

If you are feeling unwell and are unsure of your symptoms, please call 111 and you will be assessed by a call handler who will help you get the right support, first time.

As the summer months are fast approaching, it is important to be mindful of the impacts the sun can have on our skin and health. By following these tips and taking care of your skin, you can help to stay sun safe, this summer.