As the weather gets warmer, it’s more important than ever to think about protecting ourselves from the sun.
Temperatures are starting to rise, which means we’re all starting to think a little more about our skin. That means we use sunscreen more often than normal.
But one doctor said many of us make three big mistakes when it comes to applying lotion – and this could have a big impact on our health. Dr. Sarah Tranter took to TikTok to show people exactly where they’re going wrong.
He said the first mistake people make is not using sunscreen all year round. Some people also choose the wrong lotion for their skin type.
To make matters worse, Dr. Tranter said many people don’t actually apply enough to their skin to make sure it does the job properly. You should also reapply it throughout the day to ensure you are fully protected from the sun.
Dr. Tranter also observed that people do not cover all the necessary areas. He urged people not to forget their eyelids, ears, neck and hands.
According to the NHS, sunburn increases the risk of skin cancer. And what’s key to remember is that this doesn’t just happen during the holidays.
You can burn your skin in the UK, even when it’s cloudy, so it’s important to stay alert and protect your skin at all times. It is recommended to stay in the shade at the sunniest time of the day, which is between 11 am and 3 pm from March to October.
Doctors advise taking steps to protect yourself when exposed to the sun. The NHS states that you must:
- Spend time in the shade between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Don’t burn your skin
- Cover yourself with appropriate clothing and sunglasses.
- Be very careful with children
- Use at least factor 30 sunscreen
Some people are also advised to take extra care when exposing themselves to the sun. This includes people with skin conditions or if they have a family history of skin cancer.
People who should be very careful include:
- Have pale, white, or light brown skin.
- Having freckles or red or blonde hair.
- If you tend to burn instead of tan
- have several moles
- If you suffer from skin problems related to a medical condition.
- If you are visiting a hot country where the weather is really intense
