BEAT THE BURN

JAVA, the long-awaited July/August vacation is here, which means fun, friends, fam, and long, lovely beach days! Every rose has its thorn, though — or in this case, every beach its sea urchin — in the form of UV exposure/sunburn. This can lead to lead to long-term skin damage and premature ageing, not to mention an increased risk of melanomas and other forms of skin cancer. Here’s how to safeguard yourself from sunburn this summer… 

Understand your opponent

Think of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays as radiation that can damage your skin. 

• UVA rays have the power to deeply penetrate your skin, causing premature ageing and wrinkles.

• UVB rays are the primary cause of sunburn, damaging the skin’s surface layers. 

Both types of rays are most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., which is when you’re most vulnerable – but it’s also the best time to enjoy the beach. Fear not; you can still develop a solid sun protection strategy.

Pick the right sunscreen

Sunscreen is your first line of defense, but how do you choose the most effective ones (and use them properly)?  

• SPF (Sun Protection Factor) — Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, which gives you protection against both UVAs and UVBs.

• Application — Apply sunscreen at least 15-30 minutes before going outside. Don’t forget areas like your ears, the back of the neck, the top of your feet, and even your head. 

• Reapplication — Reapply every two hours or so (more if you’re swimming).

Bear in mind that kids are particularly susceptible to sunburn. There are many reliable sunscreens specifically formulated for children, which are gentle on their tender skin.

Cover up

Clothing can provide an excellent barrier against UV rays. 

• Long sleeves and long pants are a great starting point; even better if you go with lightweight, loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibres.

• Hats are heroes. Opt for wide-brimmed styles that shade your face, ears, and neck.

• Sunglasses are non-negotiable (unless, of course, you’re doing something physical or sporty, and run the risk of any sort of impact). Polarised sunglasses with UV protection safeguard your eyes and the delicate skin around them.

Throw some shade

Limiting direct sun exposure can significantly reduce your risk of sunburn.

• Take cover — Umbrellas (UV blocking versions are now available), changing tents, canopies, or even trees can offer shaded areas when you need them most.

• Be a timekeeper – Opt to avoid sun exposure during peak UV hours.

• Check the UV index – Use this daily forecast of UV radiation levels, which can be sourced via various UV apps and websites, to help plan your outdoor activities. Bear in mind that surfaces like water and sand can reflect UV rays and increase your risk of sunburn, so apply extra sunscreen and wear protective clothing like rash guards to boost your resistance. 

Hydrate

Not only does hydration help maintain healthy skin, but it can also reduce the severity of sunburn, so drink lots of throughout the day, especially if you’re active. Drinks like coconut water, which contain electrolytes, can replenish what’s lost through sweating and exertion.

Take action

If you do get sunburned, do your best to minimise the damage right away. 

• Submerge — Cool (not cold!) baths and compresses are great at soothing skin.

• Moisturise — Keep your favourite moisturisers handy to prevent skin from drying out.

• Hydrate — Drink extra water to help your body recover.

• Stay out of the sun — Keep the sunburned area covered and protected from further sun exposure.

• Consider treatments — Our Celluma LED light therapy machine has a good track recored in treating sun damage and hyperpigmentation.   

Sun protection is an important habit to nurture in order to prevent both short-term discomfort and long-term skin damage. Enjoy your holiday!