Over the past 20 years, cases of skin cancer have doubled in the UK. This is partly due to more people taking overseas holidays and exposing their skin to a sudden burst of ‘binge’ sunbathing.

People most at risk
• Fair skin
• Lots of moles or freckles
• Family history of skin cancer

The SUNSMART Message

Spend time in the shade between 11 and 3
Make sure you never burn
Aim to cover up with a t-shirt, hat and sunglasses
Remember to take extra care with children
Then use Factor 15+ sunscreen

Stay Safe
Drink extra fluids in a hot climate
Be aware that alcohol can make you dehydrated.

SUN SCREENS
• Reapply often (at least 2 hourly) and always after swimming and washing
• Use liberally.
• Make sure the sunscreen is labelled ‘broad spectrum’ – to protect against UVA and UVB
• Choose water resistant
• Check the use by dates
• You don’t need expensive brands.
• Factor 15 offers about 93% protection
Factor 30 offers about 96% protection
Factor 60 offers about 98% protection

SUNBEDS
Like the sun, sun beds give out UV rays. Exposure to UV rays is the main cause of skin cancer. So using a sun bed increases your risk of skin cancer.
You should NEVER use a sun bed if you
• Are under 18
• Have fair or freckly skin
• Burn easily
• Have lots of moles
• Have had skin cancer in the past
• Have a family history of skin cancer
• Are using medication that increases your sensitivity to UV

http://info.cancerresearchuk.org/healthyliving/sunsmart/