Here are our top tips for avoiding looking like a lobster next time you go out in the sun.
1. Everybody use suncream. Yes it’s an obvious one, and we know it’s a hassle to remember to use it, but on the other hand it really does work. Duh. Apply a proper coat 30 minutes before you leave the house and then again after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget about your ears, eyes and toes!
2. Know your SPFs. The Sun Protection Factor of your sun cream is the number that tells you how ‘strong’ it is, so the higher the number the better your protection. Pale skin and children need a minimum of SPF 30, and at the start of your holiday, SPF 15 should be used on everyone else. You can always reduce this as you tan.
3. Read the labels. Water resistant sun creams are great if you’re going to be in the water for long periods of time, but that doesn’t mean you can scrimp on reapplying them. Creams containing zinc will give you ‘broad spectrum cover’ or look for the words on the bottle to protect yourself against both UVA and UVB rays. And make sure you check the expiry date whilst you’re at it too.
4. Avoid sprays. We know they are convenient, but the mixture is more diluted to make sure it sprays properly and it’s easy to lose most of it to a mild breeze!
5. Hats are your new best friend. Effortlessly cool and perfect for keeping the sun off your face. Honour Elizabeth Taylor’s dramatic style with a wide brimmed hat – That goes for the boys too!
6. Timing is everything. The sun is at its hottest between midday and 3pm. Conveniently this is usually when my tummy starts to think about lunch, so consider taking a long lunch and maybe a post-lunch nap too? We’re not suggesting falling asleep in the sun here – be kind to your skin and head for the shade.
7. Beware of reflections. Concrete, sand, water, and snow reflect 85% to 90% of the sun’s UV rays, often hitting places you’ve forgotten to slather with sun cream, like under your chin and arms!
8. Dress to impress. Tightly woven loose clothes in darker colours will protect you as the sunlight won’t be able to penetrate and get to the skin underneath. Yes, I know you want to wear something white and floaty, but save it for the evening.
9. It’s all in the eyes. Your eyes can get damaged by UV light too, so treat yourself to a pair of proper sunglasses that come with UVA and UVB protection. If you’re going to be out on the water then a pair of polaroid lenses will be a great bonus as they stop all the reflected dazzle hitting your eyes as well.
10. Fake it. You can always use a daily tanning moisturiser on holiday to give you that gorgeous glow, safe in the knowledge that you did all the sensible things. Your skin will thank you for it.
Sun facts to tweet:
Safe tanning tips from @dealchecker – Honour Elizabeth Taylor’s dramatic style with a wide brimmed hat – Tweet this!
Safe tanning tips from @dealchecker – The sun is most dangerous between noon and 3pm. A great excuse for a long lunch – Tweet this!
Safe tanning tips from @dealchecker – be thorough with your suncream, don’t forget ears, eyes and toes! – Tweet this!
Sun Safety Fact: You can burn even on a cloudy day – Tweet this!
@dealchecker Sun Safety Fact: Concrete, water, and snow can reflect up to 85% of the sun’s UV rays – Tweet this! http://clicktotweet.com/LsKna
top image by Pete Werkman
