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You are here: Backpacker Resources > Travel Tips for Women > Summer Sun Q and A

Summer Sun Q and A

Summer Sun ‐ Q and A

I've been taking tanning pills so I don't have to bother with sun protection when I go on a beach. True or False?

False ‐ There is absolutely no substantiated clinical data in support of tanning pills and increased skin defenses. Most tanning pills are carotenoid based, (which may include beta carotene, lycopene, or canthaxanthin) and tint the subcutaneous tissue which gives rise to a change in skin colour. Despite being effective antioxidants they have absolutely no impact on melanin production and as such do not provide any viable sun protection.

The sun in the UK is not as strong as the sun in Spain. So I don't need to use such a high sun protection factor in this country. True or False?

False ‐ UVB radiation (responsible for burning) can vary seasonally and according to the time of day ‐ hence the recommendation to avoid midday sun. However that does not mean you will not burn. The term SPF (sun protection factor) refers to a chemical formula that determines level of sun protection based on your skin response to UVB and resulting damage incurred, rather than the latitudinal position of the sunbather. Regardless of when, where, or how much sun exposure you receive, Cancer Research UK recommends using a minimum of SPF 15 to adequately protect skin from damage and skin cancer development.

Why does sunbathing cause wrinkles and premature ageing?

Any exposure to daylight means damaged skin if you are not protected with sunscreen. UVA and UVB rays are constantly bombarding the skin causing both superficial burning and deeper damage to collagen, elastin and the supportive dermal material that keeps skin plump and youthful. When under attack these proteins become damaged, thickened and repair is inhibited. Thus leading to deep lines and thickened skin with uneven pigmentation.

Physical and Chemical Sunscreens

There are two types of sunscreen in the world. Chemical and Psychical. Chemical sunscreens work within the skin absorbing the UV rays, lowering the energy level and releasing the energy as heat, thus preventing the majority of UV rays passing through the skin. Physical sunscreens work by reflecting or scattering the energy rays. If you are prone to skin sensitivity or react to sunscreens, then physical would be the ideal choice.

A chemical sunscreen is very effective in absorbing UV rays but sensitize some skins. Other offending sensitisers in sunscreens are artificial fragrances. Fragrance reacts with UV and can cause irritation and pigmentation. Many sun protectants are based on oils such as mineral oil or coconut oil. These can be occlusive to skin causing blockage of the follicles and therefore breakouts. It is important to consider your individual skin condition and your outdoor activities when choosing sunscreen.

This Month’s Product Pick

DHC Velvet Skin Coat: This little badger is marketed as a make up primer but it’s also a nice little treat for your skin after your regular moisturizer. It’s similar in many ways to the eye wrinkle reducing pastes brought into the world by Dermalogica, but this one can be used all over. Simply squirt an eenie‐weeny splodge onto your finger tip and spread it out all over your face and neck. It’s lush and at £12.50 this fine line filling silicon gel won’t break the bank either. Go on ‐ treat yourselves. After all the advice you’ve absorbed about summer sun in this month’s article, you deserve it. See www.dhcuk.co.uk for more details.