Sun protection facts

We make it no secret that protecting your skin is a year-round responsibility, yet many people overlook this until the temperatures rise or they jet off to warmer climes. The following facts and figures about the sun and your skin however are certain to kickstart an obsession with sun protection that’ll last beyond the summer months…

UV damage is invisible – until it’s too late

While incredibly 90% of all UVB radiation is absorbed by our atmosphere, the radiation that does reach the Earth’s surface – known as ‘UVA’ – penetrates the skin particularly deeply. It is a fact that leaves unprotected skin extremely vulnerable to sun damage, premature aging and a range of conditions, including skin cancer.

UV radiation cannot be seen with the naked eye, neither can it be felt. The damage it causes however becomes apparent later, which makes protecting your skin now important.

UV radiation doesn’t just strike when it’s sunny

UV radiation is so powerful that it has the strength to pierce through all weather conditions. This includes clouds, rain and snow. Studies show that UV rays even reflect off concrete. That’s right, no one is safe from its effects, even on cool or cloudy days and in sheltered, inner city spots.

UV exposure actually damages your DNA

The impact of UV exposure is more than skin deep. UV radiation damages your DNA, causing mutations that, if left unchecked, become skin cancer. Exposure can also be responsible for the suppression of your immune system, making you more likely to become ill and increasing the risk factor for more serious ailments.

Skin cancer is the most common worldwide

There are an estimated 1.5 million new cases of skin cancer diagnosed worldwide every year, a fact that makes it one of the most common forms of cancer globally.

While most cases are treatable, with more common basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) rarely fatal, melanoma is lethal due to its naturally aggressive nature. Early detection and sun protection are both imperative to skin cancer treatment and remission.

Not all sunscreen is created equal

Sunscreen may be designed to protect the skin but not all are created equal. For the best protection, your sunscreen should be broad spectrum, protecting you against the effects of UVA and UVB radiation.

You can increase your protection further by seeking shade at the hottest parts of the day, accessorising with a hat and sunglasses, and wearing other protective clothing.