AYN Advice

Sun protection

It is important to remember the essentials about the facts concerning good sun protection.  Did you know that…

-  Repeated exposures to UV radiation destroys the skin’s elastic fibers and lead to wrinkles, sagging skin and injury to small blood vessels, ageing the skin prematurely
-  Sun exposure should be limited between 10am and 4pm, when the sun’s rays are at their peak
-  Since the sun can induce cataracts, your eyes should always be protected (sunglasses with UV protection)
-  After exposure, always apply a generous amount of hydrating cream all over your body
-  The sun protection factor (SPF) is an indication of the relative amount of time during which you can remain in the sun without getting a sunburn (ex:  SPF 15 means the possible exposure is 15 times longer then an unprotected skin)
-  UVA rays do not cause sunburns (UVB do), but they damage the elastic tissue of the skin while playing a role in skin cancer
-  The best sunscreens protect against both UVA and UVB rays. While most sunscreens protect against UVB rays, only the ones containing 3% avobenzone (Parsol 1789TM) give a UVA protection.  Zinc oxide or titanium oxide can also be used separately
-  Always apply a generous amount of the sunscreen 30 minutes before your exposure to the sun. Applying a thin layer reduces the effectiveness considerably
-  The application should be repeated every 2 hours and after swimming
-  The effectiveness of sunscreens is also affected by storage conditions; replenish your supply every year and do not leave the bottle of sunscreen in the sun
-  In case of painful sunburns, acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) are well indicated to reduce the pain. Gels containing aloe are also effective.
-  If you experience nausea, vomiting, fever, shivering or visual disturbances after sun exposure, consult a doctor
-  Certain drugs or cosmetic products increase the risk of getting a sunburn (ask your pharmacist)
-  Clouds and water do not stop UV radiation effectively
- Reflective surfaces (snow, sand, water) increase the effects of sun exposure and can cause you to sunburn even when you are in the shade
-  Tanning sessions (with UVA radiation) do not offer protection against sunburns

                    Have a great summer!!!