Using a sunscreen when out in the sunshine can help reduce the damage to the skin caused by ultraviolet light. Sun protection products contain particles or chemicals that help to reduce the waves penetrating the skin and therefore decrease the damage to the skin and the possibility of developing skin cancer. Sunscreens should be applied whenever you go out in the sun and should be reapplied regularly e.g. every two hours. It is especially important to reapply the product after swimming or if you have been sweating a lot. If possible, you should avoid strong sunlight in the middle of the day between 11am and 3pm.
Sunbeds also release ultraviolet waves that can damage the skin, therefore sunbed use should be limited or avoided altogether. No one under 16 should use a sunbed and adults should limit their exposure to a maximum of 20 sessions per year.
