Respect the sun, respect your skin

Before you throw caution to the wind in search of that glorious golden tan, take a moment to consider the health implications of overexposure to the sun. The first reality check is that South Africa has the second highest incidence of skin cancer in the world (after Australia), with around 20 000 reported cases each year, of which approximately 700 are fatal. The second is that it is the most common type of cancer in this country.

So, before stepping out for your dose of sunshine, take heed and take care with these tips for healthy summer skin.

Apply and reapply sunblock

A dash of sunblock applied hurriedly on the beach is not going to cut it. Diligence is key, advises Cape Town-based dermatologist Dr Kesiree Naidoo. ‘Apply sunblock before going out into the sun,’ she says, ‘and don’t forget to attend to your ears, behind your neck and your hands and feet.’ If you’re out in the sun, reapply the sunblock every two to four hours, especially if you’re swimming.

Choose your sunblock wisely

Select sunblocks with the CANSA SunSmart choice seal of approval. These adhere to the safety standards specified by the European Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association. ‘Choose a broad-spectrum sunblock with an SPF of 30 to 50,’ says Dr Naidoo. (Broad spectrum means the product will protect against UVA and UVB rays.) The SPF increases the amount of time you can spend in the sun before burning, so if it takes five minutes for your skin to burn, applying an SPF of 20 will give you 20 x five minutes of protection (100 minutes). It’s not an exact science, though, so if you’re sweating or swimming, you must reapply your lotion in order for it to provide effective protection. This is especially important for sportspeople and those whose jobs take them outdoors frequently.

Look out for sunblock sticks or spray-on products that are easy to apply, Dr Naidoo adds. Some of these ‘stickier’ formulations tend to run less (goodbye ‘burny eyes’ excuse). \ Lighter, more fluid formulations can be worn as ‘daywear’ under make-up. (Certain spray-on varieties are designed to be used on wet skin, so enquire about these when you’re shopping for sunblock for the beach or pool.)

Lip and eye care

Don’t forget that your lips take strain too, and severe cases of overexposure can lead to blistering and sun damage. Lips are at risk for more severe variants of squamous cell carcinoma (a type of skin cancer affecting the outer and middle layers of the skin which, if untreated, may spread to other parts of the body). Use a lip balm with an SPF of at least 30every day before you venture outdoors and reapply regularly. Protect your eyes with sunglasses with a UV protection rating of UV400, advises CANSA.

Swap the sunbed for self-tan products

Sunbeds deliver concentrated doses of UVA rays and should be avoided at all costs, as they age and damage skin. Instead, opt, for one of the many excellent self-tanning products on the market that are suited to different skin types. Choose a reputable manufacturer or ask for help at the cosmetics counter or at a professional salon.

In conclusion, Dr Naidoo cautions that all skin types are susceptible to skin cancer. Don’t allow your skin to burn, ‘apply, reapply and reapply your sunblock’ is her mantra. Make it yours too.