POLOKWANE – With the hot days of summer slowly creeping up on us, the sun will be shining brighter, bringing with it, sun safety and awareness.
With this in mind and with the possibility of our day temperatures hitting the mid 30’s this week, we asked learners from Curro Heuwelkruin Primary School to show us how they apply their sunscreen for maximum benefit when in the sun.
- HINT: Sunscreen should be applied about 30 minutes before you go out in the sun.
You may also want to read: Sunscreen made easy: understanding UVA, UVB, and SPF
Top 11 sunscreen tips
- Always apply sunscreen, whatever the season.
- When purchasing sunscreen products always look for “broad spectrum protection” on the label to ensure you are protected against both UVA and UVB rays.
- The proper amount of sunscreen for your body is about 1 oz. (or 30ml) which is just enough to fill a shot glass. And you need a teaspoon (5 grams) of sunscreen just for your face.
- Apply sunscreen at least 15 to 20 minutes before going into the sun. If your skin is already red from the sun, the damage has already started.
- It’s important to protect every exposed area of the skin including your ears and any bald spots.
- Wear protective clothing such as long sleeved shirts, long pants and wide-brimmed hats.
- Wear sunglasses that provide UVA and UVB protection. Not only can your eyelids burn but exposure to the UVB rays can lead to cataracts.
- Don’t think you’re protected in your car or looking out a window – the sun’s rays can penetrate glass so protect yourself even if you’re not in direct sunlight.
- Make a habit of reapplying sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or excessive sweating.
- Stay out of the sun during the hottest hours of the day and seek the shade as much as possible.
- If you simply have to have a tan, use self-tanner. (But remember to wear sunscreen too!)
Here are some tips and home remedies for sunburn
• Aloe Vera Gel
Photo: sourced
Aloe is a plant native to Africa. The long green leaves contain aloe gel.
Aloe gel is believed to have anti-inflammatory effects and is used topically to soothe burned skin and to help heal wounds.
• Honey
Photo: Sourced
Studies suggest it may work better than some antibiotic creams at speeding up healing, reducing infection, and minimizing pain.
• Oatmeal
Photo: Sourced
Finely ground oatmeal (sold as colloidal oatmeal in drug stores) works as an anti-inflammatory when mixed with bath water.
• Milk
Photo: Sourced
Place a washcloth or cotton gauze soaked in cool milk on the reddened area to create a protein film that eases discomfort and reduces heat.
maretha@nmgroup.co.za
