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Tips for protecting yourself against UV radiation
Allow your skin plenty of time to adjust to long periods spent in the sun. Try to spend the hours between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. in the shade if at all possible.
• The number of intensive exposures should not exceed 50 a year. Sunburn should always be avoided.
• Babies and small children need to be especially well protected against strong sunshine. The UV dosage received in the first year of life is a factor in the emergence of skin tumours.
• The best form of protection from the sun is suitable clothing, a hat and sunglasses. Unprotected parts of the body should be treated with sunscreen. A sun protection factor of at least 15 is recommended for those with sensitive skin or skin unaccustomed to the sun. Small children should use a sun protection factor of at least 30.
• All sunscreens should provide protection in both the UVB and UVA range. Heed the UVA label on the product.
• Never look straight into the sun unless wearing special protective eyewear!
• People who take medication should consult their doctor before sunbathing. Certain drugs increase the photosensitivity of the skin or can trigger light allergies.
• Cosmetics, deodorants and perfumes should be avoided if at all possible when sunbathing as there is a risk of permanent pigmentation.
Sunburn
Mild sunburn does not need any special treatment. Cool compresses can be applied to lower the skin temperature and may be just as soothing as after-sun products.
Consult your doctor if the sunburn is painful and starts blistering.
Do not expose yourself to the sun again until your skin has fully regenerated.
Sun allergies
Sun allergy is a catch-all term for a wide range of diseases. These can be caused by sunlight alone or by UV radiation in conjunction with other substances, such as the chemical substances contained in cosmetics, creams, perfumes or even in plants with which the skin comes into contact.
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