A standard white T-shirt corresponds roughly to SPF 20, a hat brim width of less than 7.5 cm provides sun protection for the nose and cheeks, while a wider brim or visor additionally protects the chin and neck. How to protect our skin from sunburn, dryness and irritation is explained by Prof. Dr. med. and N. Sc. o zdr. Beata Bergler - Czop and dr hab. n. med. Bartosz Miziołek from the Department of Dermatology of the Silesian Medical University.
Holidays are a time when many Poles take sunbaths, often travelling abroad, where the intensity of sunlight is much higher than at home. It is important to remember that the sun's rays are not only a tan and a source of vitamin D3, but also a risk factor for skin cancer and accelerated photo-ageing.
- It is extremely important to protect our skin by using appropriate creams with UV filters, of which there are many on the market - convinces Prof. Bergler - Czop and adds: - Most often, we should choose products containing chemical filters, which absorb ultraviolet radiation and convert it into heat, thus protecting the skin from damage. Chemical filters are an essential ingredient in cosmetic products because they spread well on the skin and do not leave marks.
Young children in particular are exposed to the potential side effects of chemical filters, so it is recommended that only mineral-based sunscreens are used until the age of two. Importantly, they contain zinc oxide and titanium oxide, which reflect and scatter incident sunlight. Formulations are less popular with adults as they are more difficult to spread and sometimes leave white streaks on the skin.
- It is extremely important to note that the application of sunscreen does not guarantee total protection from the sun's rays! It is important to bear in mind that a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) allows you to be in the sun for 15, 30 or 50 times longer, as the SPF determines how many times the dose (not the time !) is needed to cause erythema on the skin compared to an unprotected skin. The recommended SPF is at least 30 on the whole body for the entire spring-summer period," warns Prof. Bergler -Czop, SUM scientist.
Skin lubrication should be repeated after every swim in the sea, lake or pool. Let's also use the amount of cream according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
- An important complement to UV sunscreen creams is protective headgear, says Dr Miziołek. Why? - It is worth knowing that a roundabout width of less than 7.5 cm provides sun protection for the nose and cheeks, while a wider roundabout or visor allows additional protection for the chin and neck. In addition, it is recommended to wear dark glasses, especially those overlapping the temples and providing light absorption up to 400 nm.
There are also special garments on the market, such as T-shirts with a specific UV filter, which can complement the cream. A standard white T-shirt, on the other hand, corresponds roughly to SPF 20.
Salty sea water and chlorinated pool water, as well as air-conditioned rooms, dry out the skin. Strong winds sometimes make it red and irritated. As a result of all these factors, our skin can become dry, irritated, red, but also react paradoxically with increased seborrhoea. - Let's remember that we have to apply intensive moisturising care with preparations properly designed for this purpose, adapted to the individual needs of the skin, emphasises Dr Miziołek and adds: - In the summer period, it is also important to remember to hydrate the skin from the inside, drink plenty of water and avoid too long, hot showers, which will further exacerbate the tendency to dry skin.
High temperatures also make the skin sweat faster, which, if not properly cared for, can lead to the appearance of skin lesions such as perspiration or exacerbate existing skin conditions. It is therefore advisable to choose airy clothing made from natural materials, avoiding clothes that are too tight.
There are also quite a few dietary supplements on the market to support skin care and sunbathing - but there is no objective evidence of their effectiveness.
We wish you a relaxing and sunny summer, equipped with the right UV filter!
