Perth County – If you are planning a trip to a sunny destination this winter, the Perth District Health Unit reminds you to pack your sunscreen. Sunny vacation destinations are closer to the equator which means stronger, more damaging rays. The ultraviolet (UV) index is higher in tropical destinations, so it takes less time in the sun before you burn and cause damage to your skin.
Before you go:
Indoor tanning in preparation for your trip does not offer effective protection against sunburn during your vacation. Some tanning beds can expose you to 5 times more radiation than the sun. Getting a tan from a tanning bed doesn’t protect you from the sun and increases your risk of skin cancer.
Skin cancer is one of the most preventable types of cancer. Regardless of your skin type, tanning increases your risk of skin cancer. People with fair skin may be at even higher risk for skin cancer from using tanning beds than people with other skin types.
To reduce your risk of getting skin cancer, skip the tan – there is no such thing as a safe tan.
While on vacation:
Reduce sun exposure between 11 am and 4 pm and when the UV index is above 3.
Use SPF 30 or higher. Reapply after swimming, water sports or heavy perspiration.
Cover up with loose fitting clothing – synthetic blends are more effective than cotton.
Protect your eyes with sunglasses.
Wear a wide brimmed hat.
Choose shade over direct sunlight
Know that some medications, cosmetics and lotions increase skin sensitivity to UV rays.
Reapply, reapply, reapply your sunscreen, especially if you plan on spending time in the water.
– See more at: http://www.pdhu.on.ca/going-south-pdhu-suggests-you-skip-the-tan/#sthash.RiQohj76.dpuf