With recent scorching weather across Britain, more people are heading outdoors to enjoy the sunshine. However, health experts are reminding the public of a crucial NHS rule involving teaspoons to prevent long-term skin damage that can be difficult to reverse.
Understanding UV Levels
The Met Office forecasts temperatures will drop from peaks of 35°C throughout the week. Yet, UV levels are what the public should be aware of when outdoors, as these measurements are arguably more important for health than the temperature itself. When UV levels reach three and above, prolonged exposure causes sunburn, which can heighten the risk of certain skin cancers, reports the Express.
Dr Sara Kayat's Advice on ITV's This Morning
Appearing on a recent episode of ITV's This Morning, Dr Sara Kayat said: "People notoriously underapply sunscreen. Really, for an average body, we need about six to eight teaspoons. The issue with teaspoons is that most people don't carry them around. What you can do as a simplified version is get your fingers and apply a strip, and another, and that is roughly a teaspoon. What you want to do is apply one teaspoon to the face and neck, one to each arm, one to each leg, one to the torso, one to the back - and that is how much you should be applying each time."
Instead of carrying around old teaspoons to measure out the perfect amount of sunscreen, Dr Sara showed that using two fingers' worth of product worked out to roughly a spoonful's worth. The NHS GP said it is important not only to use sufficient amounts, but also to reapply regularly during the day. She said: "Every two hours, and sooner if you're swimming, sweating or rubbing."
Choosing the Right Sunscreen
When purchasing sunscreen, the label should display a sun protection factor (SPF) of no less than 30 to guard against UVB rays and at least 4-star UVA protection. UVA protection may also be indicated by the letters "UVA" inside a circle, indicating compliance with the EU standard. Always check that your sunscreen hasn't expired. This is identified by an open jar symbol, the letter M and a number, indicating how many months the sunscreen remains usable once opened.
According to the NHS, sunscreen alone is insufficient to protect yourself from the sun. Experts advise Brits to wear appropriate clothing and seek shade during the hottest part of the day.
How Often Should I Be Applying Sunscreen?
The NHS said that most people "do not apply enough sunscreen". It said: "As a guide, adults should aim to apply around six to eight teaspoons of sunscreen if you're covering your entire body. If sunscreen is applied too thinly, the amount of protection it gives is reduced."
If you expect to be outdoors long enough to risk sunburn, you must apply sunscreen twice. The NHS advises this should be done 30 minutes before heading outside, and again just before going out. It added: "It's also recommended to reapply sunscreen every two hours, as the sun can dry it off your skin." Sunscreen must be applied generously and regularly, in line with the manufacturer's guidelines. This means reapplying it immediately after swimming, even if it claims to be "water resistant", after drying off with a towel, after sweating, or if it appears to have worn off.
