SPF and UV: Protecting your skin from the sun

Over exposure to the sun can cause damage to the skin, resulting in premature ageing and an acceleration of the ageing process.

While sunlight in moderation can have its benefits, it helps to stimulate Vitamin D production and can be beneficial to mood, taking precautions and using SPF daily is imperative to protecting your skin from the harmful effects of the sun.

While sun protection should be applied to all areas of skin that is exposed to the sun, the skin on your face is thinner and exposed to the UV rays throughout the year, including winter. Whatever your age, gender or location, sun protection is essential in order to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. Over exposure to the sun's UV radiation can cause an increase in fine lines, wrinkles, pigmentation and dry skin.

Staying protected in the sun

• Avoid excessive exposure to the sun especially during the hours when the sun is most intense.
• Use sun protection and reapply thoroughly and regularly especially after sweating or being in water
• Wear the appropriate level of SPF for your skin, use a minimum of SPF15. Apply to all areas of skin exposed to the sun. Certain parts of your body are more prone to damage from the sun so take extra care to protect your face, behind ears, neck and décolletage.
• Check the date of your sunscreen.
• Wear clothing to cover and protect your skin from UV rays and ensure you wear a har and sunglasses.
• Apply after sun regularly after being exposed to sun
• Wear daily SPF even during winter