Four Hazards In The Sun
Light skin, using out of date sun creams, applying an insufficient amount or, for example, mistakenly trusting in a thin white shirt or so-called all day sun cream products are well known risk factors for nasty sunburn. However, there are less obvious dangers lurking. Take four times extra care in the sun.
Alcohol
How pleasant it is on a sun drenched day off; alcohol and the sun are, nevertheless, not a very safe combination. Apart from disrupting the moisture balance, it appears that excessive alcohol consumption also increases the risk of burning. In an American study of just under 300,000 adults a clear link was demonstrated. Explanation? Excessive drink leads to application misconduct. Along with this, the researchers even make the leap from too much drinking to an increased risk of skin cancer.
Perfume and fragrant oils
Perfume and fragrant oils such as lavender, bergamot, orange, lemon, musk and rosemary make the skin more sensitive to the sun. Do you use skincare products or your own homemade remedies with these ingredients? Then take extra care when you go outside. These so-called essential oils are phototoxic. That is to say: the substances can cause skin irritation or even burning under the influence of light. And did you know that citrus extracts can also cause annoying patches on the skin?
IPad
It is, in fact, quite logical. But how many people would it occur to that their iPad, iPhone or other tablet acts as a reflector in the sun? Last year the University of New Mexico carried out a study into this. Tests were also carried out on various mobile apparatus using a model with a UV metre next to the face. It emerged from this that an iPad produces at least 85% more UV rays as a result of reflection. An iPhone yields 36% more rays. So, it is better to sit in the shade with your mobile apparatus; you can also see it better. This applies even more so for children. And besides, make sure that the sunscreen is sufficient.
Medication
Some medicines can also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, causing you to burn more quickly than normal. Here, I mean certain antibiotics, anti-histamines and anti-depressives. But also some anti-fungal preparations, malaria treatments and diuretic medicines can make the skin more sensitive. Take good care if you are being treated for acne with isotretinoin (e.g Roaccutane). Your skin can still remain more sensitive even when you have stopped using this treatment for a couple of weeks. Beyond this, certain substances in medication can also cause annoying pigmentation spots in the sun. For safety, read the information leaflet before going in the sun. Or consult a Doctor or Pharmacist.
Kind regards,
Jetske
Research Physician Cosmetic Dermatology
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