Summer in Malta is known as the season of sun, fun, and outdoor activities. However, prolonged exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can pose serious risks to your skin and overall health.
Ensuring you use the right sun care products is important for the prevention of sun-related diseases. Our Health Needs team has worked on a short guide on how to protect yourself while enjoying the sunny and warm weather.
Understanding the Risks of Sun Exposure
Sun exposure can lead to various health issues, including:
- Sunburn: UV rays can cause painful reddening and damage to the skin.
- Premature Aging: Prolonged exposure accelerates skin aging, leading to wrinkles and age spots.
- Skin Cancer: UV radiation is a major risk factor for skin cancer, including melanoma. Skin cancer may become apparent years after significant damage is done to the skin.
Understanding these risks underscores the importance of using effective sun protection measures.
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
When selecting a sunscreen, consider the following factors:
SPF (Sun Protection Factor)
The SPF number indicates the level of protection against UVB rays, which cause sunburn. An SPF of 30 or higher is recommended for significantprotection, considering the potency of UV Rays emitted by the Sun in Malta. For extended outdoor activities, opt for higher SPF levels.
Broad-Spectrum Protection
Ensure your sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection, meaning that it shields against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin, contributing to premature aging and skin cancer.
Water Resistance
If you’re swimming or sweating, choose a water-resistant sunscreen. From our selection of suncare products, you can choose sunscreen provides protection even when you’re in water. (typically 40 or 80 minutes).
Skin Type Considerations
For sensitive skin, opt for sunscreens with physical blockers like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. These ingredients are less likely to cause irritation compared to chemical blockers.
Applying Sunscreen Correctly
To maximise protection, follow these application tips:
- Apply Generously: Use about an adequate amount of sunscreen to cover your entire body.
- Reapply Regularly: Reapply every two hours, or more often if swimming or sweating.
- Cover All Exposed Areas: Don’t forget often-missed spots like the ears, back of the neck, and tops of the feet.
Additional Sun Safety Tips
Beyond sunscreen, we recommend these additional measures that help with mitigating the sun’s dangerous effects on the skin and on your health:
Wear Protective Clothing
Clothing can provide a physical barrier against UV rays. Look for garments with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating for added protection.
Seek Shade
Especially during peak sun hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.), find shade under umbrellas, trees, or shelters.
Wear Sunglasses
Protect your eyes from UV rays by wearing sunglasses with 100% UV protection.
Use a Wide-Brimmed Hat
A hat can protect your face, ears, and neck from direct sunlight.
Recommended Suncare Products
At HealthNeeds, we offer a range of high-quality suncare products to meet your needs. Check out our top picks:
- Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen SPF 50: Provides excellent protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
- Water-Resistant Sunscreen: Ideal for swimming and outdoor sports.
- Sensitive Skin Sunscreen: Formulated with zinc oxide for gentle protection.
For more detailed information on sun safety, refer to resources from the Skin Cancer Foundation.
Stay safe and enjoy the sun responsibly by choosing the right suncare products and following these sun protection tips. Your skin will thank you!
