Overexposed! Save me from the sun
While most people welcome warmer weather, it can be a double-edged sword. Often, warmth means longer days, more sunlight hours to enjoy. But it’s important not to get too excited that you forget to be sun smart. If you end up being overexposed, you may find yourself sunburnt and in pain, dehydrated, restless and unable to sleep. The simple way to avoid this is to be smart, careful and sensible (a word that is bound to get an eye roll or two from your teenagers).
Being smart
Finding out a little more about UV radiation is a good idea. The more you know, the more precautions you can take to avoid or limit your exposure.
UV stands for ultraviolet. Ultraviolet rays are invisible, emitted from the sun. UV radiation is made up of the following types of rays:
- ultraviolet A (UVA)
- ultraviolet B (UVB)
- ultraviolet C (UVC)
While UVC is the most dangerous type of UV radiation, it doesn’t pose a threat to humans because it can’t penetrate the earth’s protective ozone layer. UVA and UVB, however, can penetrate the ozone layer and can, therefore, damage your skin.
Being careful
According to Cancer Council Australia, skin cancers account for approximately 80% of all newly diagnosed cancers each year, with the majority caused by exposure to UV radiation in sunlight.
As if that wasn’t warning enough, sun exposure and UV rays are also the primary cause of the degradation of skin texture, pigmentation, sun spots and wrinkles. Because the sun reduces skin elasticity, it leads to premature skin aging (that’s the wrinkles).
Prolonged exposure to the sun also causes sunburn – not only is sunburn uncomfortable, it can be so bad that it blisters and, possibly, may become infected. Dehydration is another uncomfortable side effect.
Being sensible
Fortunately, you can prevent these nasty side effects by being sensible – and Es Una can help you with overexposure.
From lotions to gels to sprays to creams, sunscreens come in various forms. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that if you’re going to spend an extended amount of time outdoors, apply a water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. If you’re wearing flimsy fabric, make sure to apply it to your skin before you get dressed. Reapply throughout the day to retain protection.
3. Seek shade
UV light is the strongest between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm; so it’s crucial to limit your exposure to direct sunlight during these times. If you are spending time outdoors during these hours; wear a wide-brimmed hat, stay under an umbrella, or seek shade under a roof or tree.
While the damaging effects of the sun are scary, you don’t need to miss out on fun in the sun, especially if you know how to protect yourself. Remember to stock up on sunscreen and avoid direct exposure to the sunlight especially during times when UV rays are most active. Choose a sun protective clothing brand you can trust (we can recommend at least one!). There are plenty of options that enable you to get out, have fun and be sun smart. Es Una is not just for sun – but we are that too.
To access our member only benefits and save your skin this Summer, join our VIP Club and choose a swim dress or modest swimwear option that's the right style for you.