Sun protection basics for the whole family
• At birth, we have a reserve of “sun capital” that we use up throughout our lives. The more skin is exposed, the more it becomes damaged.
• UVA rays or long UV rays (95 percent of UV rays) and UVB rays or medium UV rays (5 percent of UV rays received) have different biological effects. While the body is able to block most UVB rays, it struggles to protect itself from damaging UVA rays.
• Even when tanned, your skin needs protection. There is less risk of getting sunburn but the risks caused by long UVA rays persist.
• If you have darker skin, you might think you don’t need sun protection. This is false. The damaging effects of UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin, so don’t forget the sunscreen.