On the occasion of “Sun Protection Day” on June 21st, the Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety (BVL) is giving tips on protecting yourself from the sun’s rays. Proper sun protection is always a question of skin type. In general, the BVL advises:

  • Never stay in the sun unprotected for a long time. The sun should be particularly avoided during midday (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.).
  • Infants and young children should not be exposed directly to the sun.
  • Textiles, including headgear, provide effective sun protection. Tight and light-colored clothing made of cotton provides less protection against solar radiation than loose, dark clothing or labeled UV protective clothing. UV protective clothing must even have at least a sun protection factor of 40.
  • The areas that are not protected by suitable textiles should be protected with sunscreen with the correct sun protection factor.
  • The eyes also need protection. Make sure that the glasses also block UV-A and UV-B rays! Specialist shops or opticians will be happy to advise.

The right sun protection factor

Choosing the right sun protection factor (SPF) depends on your skin type, the intensity of sun exposure and how long you spend in the sun. The skin is particularly sensitive after the winter months as the skin's own protection is reduced.

  • In general, the lighter your skin and the longer you spend in the sun, the higher the sun protection factor should be. There are now numerous apps or online calculators to determine your skin type and how long you spend in the sun each day.
  • The recommended sun protection factor for children is at least 30 and for adults at least 20. If in doubt, higher protection should always be chosen!
  • It is important that sun protection products not only protect against UV-B but also against UV-A radiation! Increased UV-A radiation can lead to long-term consequences such as faster skin aging, pigment spots and, in the worst case, even skin cancer.
  • It should also be noted that there is no complete protection against solar radiation through sunscreen. Statements such as “100% protection” or “sunblock” convey a false sense of security and must not be used.

The sufficient amount

  • Three full tablespoons of sunscreen per application is the right amount for an adult! In this way, the protective effect stated on the packaging is usually achieved.
  • Re-applying cream is particularly important, especially after bathing or sweating. This maintains the sun protection. However, this does not increase the amount of time you can spend protected in the sun.

Please also consider this

  • Sunlight is additionally reflected on the sea and beach. In the mountains, the thinner layers of air filter less UV light and snow may also reflect additionally. There is an increased risk of sunburn here!
  • Please remember: Harmful UV rays are still present even when the sky is overcast and in the shade. In summer, the following applies every day: Don't forget sun protection if you plan to spend a long time outdoors.
  • Be careful at the first signs of sunburn (redness or tight skin feeling): stop spending time in the sun immediately! The skin can already be damaged in the long term.
  • Please note that sunscreen does not last forever. The shelf life after opening is usually stated in the form of a cream jar with a month. It can be helpful to note the date of first use on the product.

Already knew?

Many day care products such as creams already contain SPF or other ingredients such as vitamin E that intercept free radicals. These arise e.g. B. when UV rays trigger photochemical processes in the skin. However, day creams alone do not offer sufficient protection on sunny days.

Additional information

Source: German Health Portal

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