PHARMACY - General Health information

sun care

Before you go out enjoying the rays of the summer sun, take a minute to consider the risks of sun exposure.

Everyone needs some sun, as it's our primary source of vitamin D, which helps us absorb calcium for stronger, healthier bones. But it doesn't take long for most people to get the vitamin D they need, and further unprotected exposure to the sun's ultraviolet rays can cause skin damage, eye damage, immune system suppression and, most worrying - cancer. Therefore it is very important to protect skin that is exposed to the sun to help lessen these risks.

All sunscreens are required by law to have a 'Sun Protection Factor' (SPF). This relates to the amount of absorption of ultraviolet rays type B (UVB), that particular sunscreen contains. It is very important to protect skin exposed to the sun because of the risk of skin cancers. Long-term sun exposure also causes premature ageing-the skin becomes less elastic and wrinkles develop.

Tips & Advice for customers:

• The cancer council of Australia recommends that all skin types should use at least an SPF 15 sunscreen for sun protection
• Try to avoid the sun during the middle of the day (11am-4pm). This is when the ultraviolet radiation (UVR) is at its strongest
• Always apply sunscreen 20-30 minutes before going outdoors into the sun
• Reapply sunscreen frequently - At least every 2 hours, or more often if perspiring, exercising or swimming. Apply to children every 20-40 minutes
• On children under 6 months it is better to use a titanium dioxide based sunscreen, as this is not absorbed into the skin
• People with acne should avoid oil-based products as these could worsen the acne
• Remember that reflection off the water, snow and sand can cause sunburn
• Apply sunscreen even if it is overcast, as UV rays can pass through cloud
• Protect lips to avoid reactivating a cold sore

When to seek further professional advice:

• A person has severe sunburn and blisters, extreme pain or feels unwell, light headed or has a headache
• A person complains of burning more easily then before, especially if sun exposure has been minimal. Some medicines can cause skin to burn more easily, so a Pharmacist or Doctor should check the customer's medication history
• A young child has moderate to severe sunburn. The child may need treatment for dehydration, and appropriate skin care