Here are a few hints in how to protect yourself against the dangerous UV-rays from the sun.
First lets answer the following question: What is UV?
The sun is by far the strongest source of ultraviolet radiation in our environment. Solar emissions include visible light, heat and ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Just as visible light consists of different colours that become apparent in a rainbow, the UV radiation spectrum is divided into three regions called UVA, UVB and UVC. As sunlight passes through the atmosphere, all UVC and most UVB is absorbed by ozone, water vapour, oxygen and carbon dioxide. UVA is not filtered as significantly by the atmosphere.
The UV rays emitted by the sun are strongest and most harmful at mid-day, between the hours of 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
How to protect yourself
Most people think that they are well protected against these harmful sun rays by just wearing a T-shirt.
Well … they are wrong! Only thick and dark clothing can protect your skin from these UV rays.
Different ways to enjoy the sun. Photo by Michela (sognocalifornia)
Best protection offers among others denim and thick wool. Light clothing of cotton or linen, which are moreover slightly of color, generally offers only moderate protection … which can be compared with a sun lotion factor 10.
Keep a long-sleeved shirt in the trunk of your (rental)car to put on when you go for an unexpected walk, or find yourself without sunscreen.
Of course we all realize that during the (hot) summer days most people will not wear thick trousers and pullovers. Therefore the advice is to use sun blockers and sunscreen lotions. Purchase sunscreen that has at least a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher. Use it liberally, better too have more than less when being exposed to ultraviolet rays. Introduce the creme approximately a half hour before and …. an excessive lubrication of your skin is most worthwhile … even a must. Also a water-based sunscreen lotion is the best option above the other alternatives.
The main key to successful protection is reapplying! It might be that you will find no application “rules” on your bottle or that it is in a language you do not understand, but the suggested norm is every couple of hours. If you are sweating or swimming, most recommend reapplying more often.
Buy several smaller tubes of sunscreen, rather than one large tube. Keep one at home, near the front door, and one near the back door for easy access. Keep one in the car and one in your purse or briefcase.
Wear a hat with a wide brim when you are outside. This will protect your head, nose and ears from sun damage, and can also protect you from sunstroke.
For more information about UV Radiation, check also:
