Sun Safety Basics

Beautiful days are meant to be spent outside.  Not only does sunshine boost our moods by stimulating the production of serotonin, it also stimulates the synthesis of vitamin D.

We have a precursor of vitamin D in our skin called provitamin D3. This gets converted into the active form, previtamin D3, when the sun’s UV rays penetrate our skin.  Vitamin D has lots of important biological functions, including helping our bodies absorb calcium and phosphorus, both of which are important for bone health.

Despite having many benefits, the sun can be dangerous. Staying out in the hot sun for too long without protection can damage our  skin and increase the risk of skin cancer. Monitoring when you go out into the sunshine will minimize skin damage and cancer risk. Here are some top sun safety tips to keep you safe.

• Stay covered by wearing long sleeved shirts and long skirts or trousers
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat that shades your neck, ears and face.
• Wear sunscreen with a factor of at least 30
• Reapply sunscreen every few hours
• Avoid going outside when the sun is at its peak, which is usually between 11 am and 3 pm
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Stay in the shade as much as possible when sitting outside