As the weather warms up and the summer approaches, it is vital to remember the importance of protecting ourselves and our little ones against the sun’s rays.
But before we can lecture our children on what to do, we ourselves need to be fully informed.
Ultraviolet radiation from the suns rays can cause all forms of skin cancer including basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) as well as malignant melanomas. This ultraviolet radiation consists mainly of ultraviolet rays A (UVA) and B (UVB). Exposure to UVA radiation is associated primarily with skin ageing as well as skin cancer. UVB radiation is responsible for sunburn which in turn predisposes us to skin cancer. The majority of sunscreens protect against UVB rays alone-therefore it is very important to read the label carefully before you buy any sunscreen for you or your children. Below are facts you need to know to ensure you get the best sun protection possible.
What is SPF?
We are all familiar with the term SPF but what does it actually mean? SPF stands for sun protection factor-however, in reality, it should more accurately be termed “sunburn protection factor” as it only protects against the suns’ UVB rays…
