How to Protect Yourself when at the Beach or Out Doors

Many women and some men too, cringe when they think of being outdoors under our Malaysian sun.

What can you do to protect yourself if you are for example going to an island for that idyllic seaside holiday?

Ultraviolet (UV)

There are 3 ranges of UV rays, UVA, UVB and UVC.

UVA rays are long-wave, and can penetrate deep into our skin.

UVB rays are medium-wave, and only penetrate the superficial epidermal cells. UVB is the one responsible for delayed tanning and burning.

Short-wavelength UVC is the most damaging type of UV radiation. However, it is completely filtered by the atmosphere and does not reach the earth's surface.

Doctors and experts usually recommend that an SFP30 or higher to get sufficient protection. Full-spectrum/broad-spectrum will do the job for both UVA and UVB.

Check ingredients for : avobenzone, cinoxate, ecamsule, menthylanthranilate,octyl methoxycinnamate, octyl salicylate, oxybenzone, sulisobenzone, or zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.

Use adequate amounts, and apply 30 minutes before going under the sun. Re-apply again at least after 2 hours or less if you are in the water.

Avoid exposing yourself between 10 am and 4 pm. Do not forget the benefits of sunlight, the only natural source of vitamin D, for strong bones and teeth, and for better absorption of calcium.