Did you know that you can still feel the effects of the sun when it’s overcast and chilly? That’s because the sun is still emitting harmful UV rays, these cause skin damage, uneven skin tone spots and they can cause skin cancer too. UVA rays damage the skin cells structure which causes aging skin.
At least 80% of sun-induced skin damage occurs before the age of 18 and only starts to show later on in life. It’s, therefore, super important that children’s skins are protected with sunscreen throughout the year. Not just on those beach and pool days.
While people with a fair skin tone like me, who are blonde/red hair; have light skin; freckles; green/blue eyes are more at risk for sunburn (don’t I know it) and skin damage, people of all ethnicities are at risk of getting skin cancer.
A good quality sunscreen is a must for all South Africans, young and old, all year round.
To see the effects of the sun for yourself, smile in the mirror and look at your fine lines on the left side of your face, now do the same on the right side. The right side will always be worse as that’s the side of your face by the window, which is exposed to sunlight when you’re driving. No matter how short your commute is. SPF in sunscreen is only active for a year, so don’t save your sunscreen for beach days, wear it every day. Especially under your foundation ladies. Some of these sunscreens even act as a great primer, LOL.
In the interest of ensuring that your family uses effective sunscreen offering adequate protection, opt for sunscreen endorsed by The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA). Look for the CANSA Seal of Recognition (CSOR) on your sun protection products. This seal ensures that the brand has complied with strict criteria developed by CANSA in the interest of a SunSmart South Africa.
It is best to use a sunscreen that has a sun protection factor of a minimum of 20, and broad-spectrum protection against harmful UVA & UVB rays, preventing premature aging and lowering your risk of skin cancer.
Island Tribe sunscreens give effective protection against both UVA and UVB rays. This range has been tested by dermatologists and bears the CANSA seal of recognition.
Visit www.islandtribe.co.za for more information and join the conversations on Facebook and Instagram.
