Sun-Savvy Tips
In recent weeks we have experienced some very sunny days and hopefully there are more to come 😊.
Please remember that too much sunlight is harmful to your skin. A tan is a sign that the skin has been damaged. The damage is caused by ultraviolet (UV) rays in sunlight.
If work keeps you outdoors for a long time your skin could be exposed to more sun than is healthy for you. If you have naturally brown or black skin, you are less at risk of skin cancer, although cases do occur. Therefore, when the sunlight is intense, it would be sensible if you also followed the guidance below to protect yourself.
You should take particular care if you have:
- fair or freckled skin that does not tan, or goes red or burns before it tans;
- red or fair hair and light-coloured eyes;
- a large number of moles.
The harmful effects are, in the short term, even mild reddening of the skin from sun exposure is a sign of damage. Sunburn can blister the skin and make it peel. Longer term problems can arise, too much sun speeds up ageing of the skin, making it leathery, mottled and wrinkled, the most serious effect is an increased chance of developing skin cancer.
What can you do to protect yourself?
- Keep your skin covered.
- Wear a hat with a brim or a flap that covers the ears and the back of the neck.
- Stay in the shade whenever possible, during your breaks and especially at lunch time.
- Use a high factor sunscreen of at least SPF15 on any exposed skin & apply regularly.
- Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
Check your skin regularly for any unusual moles or spots and see your doctor promptly if you find anything that is changing in shape, size, or colour, itching or bleeding.
Please think about the above both at work and at home or on holiday.
Have a great summer.
Dave Black
Group Head of Health, Safety and Estates.
