BE SUN-SMART
THIS SUMMER!
Summer is the perfect time to bond and participate in activities with family
members outdoors. Whether it is a picnic in the park, a bike ride or just a
refreshing dip in the pool, we all want to make the most of the sunshine.
However, exposing our skin to ultraviolet rays WITHOUT any PROTECTION can LEAD TO LONG-TERM, IRREVERSIBLE SKIN DAMAGE.
The sun produces very harmful ULTRAVIOLET (UV) RAYS.
These UV rays can severely damage the skin's surface and beneath it.
We have to protect ourselves against AGAINST TWO TYPES OF
HARMFUL UV RAYS that may cause skin cancer: UVA and UVB rays.
UVA rays pass right through clouds and are responsible for the aging of skin.
UVB rays are partially stopped by the Ozone layer and also partially absorbed by the clouds. They are responsible for burning the skin.
In order to protect yourself and your family, students, and patients, follow these tips and be brighter than the sun!
- Wear loose-fitting clothes, a wide-brimmed
hat and sunglasses.
- Avoid the sun between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
- Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more.
- Take a break in the shade.
ADVICE
ON SUN SCREEN
APPLICATION:
Required amount
Most people do not apply enough sunscreen. For the average-sized adult, use at least a handful, or 20ml of sunscreen for a full body application. This amount may vary for children.
Apply sunscreen before going outside:
Sunscreen should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before going outside so that the active ingredients have time to be fully absorbed by the skin, providing maximum sun protection. Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours – especially after intense exercise or swimming.
Pay particular attention to sensitive areas:
The face is generally the most exposed area. Consequently, particular attention should be given to sensitive areas of the face like the nose, around the eyes, ears, hairline and around the mouth. It is recommended that you use hydrating sunscreen for
the face.
Read the labels
Before buying sunscreens, read the labels carefully to ensure that they contain a broad-spectrum patented photostable protection which provides protection against UVA and UVB rays. Likewise, look for the Canadian Dermatology Association
logo and seal which signifies that the product has been recommended by dermatologists.
Use lip balm:
Sun exposure may affect your lips by making them dry and cracked, increasing the harmful effects of the sun. Make it a habit of protec-ting your lips year-round by applying a lip balm with an SPF of at least 30.