Photoprotection

Simply staying indoors is obviously the best way of avoiding the sun. However, encouraging individuals to time outdoor exposure; Try to schedule activities before 10 am and after 4 pm (daylight savings time) and avoids solar exposure at times of peak intensity. Be reminded that on cloudy days as much as 80% of ultra violet radiations ( UVR ) may still penetrate the cloud cover.

Clothing can be an excellent form of sun protection. The most important determinant is tightness of the weave. Fabric type is less important. Thickness is also less important than regular weave. Protection drops significantly when the fabric becomes wet. Color plays a minor role, with dark colors protecting better than light colors.

Because UV light can have adverse effects on EYES, sunglasses provide important protection.
Sunscreens represent only one component of a total program of photo protection. Sunscreens alone may provide insufficient protection from UVR. Sunscreens function best to prevent sunburn from UV-B radiation. They provide more limited protection from UV-A radiation. Sun avoidance remains the most desirable form of sun protection.

Sunscreen should be applied 15-30 minutes prior to sun exposure to allow sufficient time for a protective film to develop. Sunscreen should be reapplied after prolonged swimming or vigorous activity. Under conditions of continuous UVR exposure, they should be reapplied every couple of hours. Particular attention needs to be paid to the back of the neck, the ears, and the areas of the scalp with thin hair.

UVR exposure, they should be reapplied every couple of hours. Particular attention needs to be paid to the back of the neck, the ears, and the areas of the scalp with thin hair.