beaches

Every year many thousands of people in the UK on holidays and those who go abroad, recieve sunburn to their skin after spending too much time in the summer sun.

This year the Health Protection Agency UK are urging holiday makers to take caution when having fun in the sun.

We've all experienced sunburn before. The painful itchy and burning sensation that nothing will elliviate. When we have this feeling it is clear evidence that the skin has been damaged by over-exposure to the sun's ultraviolet radiation(UVR). This over-exposure is one of the main triggers of malignang melanoma which in turn is the number one cause of death from skin cancer. HPA scientists believe that the more times a person has suffered sunburn, the higher the chance of a malignant melanoma.

Dr John O'Hagan, who heads up the optical radiation safety group at the HPA, said: "Being out in the sunshine in the summer is a perfectly natural and enjoyable thing to do and we very much want people to enjoy their summer holiday safely.

"But it's also really important that people remember that being out in the sunshine at this time of the year, and especially at those times of day when the sun is at its highest, carries the risk of sunburn."

So when we're out in the sun enjoying our summer, whether it be out in our own back yards or if we're off in an exotic place, the HPA recommends;

1. Be aware of how sensitive your skin is to the sun. Don't over do it and if you know your skin burns easily take extra precautions.

2. The hottest part of the day is between 11am and 3pm - try to seek out shelter from the sun in a lovely cafe or just under a tree.

3. Hats not only look very stylish but wide brimmed ones also shade your face, head and neck. They also give extra protection to your eyes and thus protect you.

4. Don't forget to wear a good quality SPF (sun protection factor) 15 (at least) sunscreen. Apply it generously and frequently. If you're not wearing a water proof one, remember that it can run off if you are sweating.

Dr O'Hagan added: "Every year too many people from the UK who holiday here and abroad pay a price for not protecting themselves properly.

"However some sun exposure is good for you and it is important to get the balance right. For example there is no problem in taking a 15 minute walk in the sunshine at lunchtime. If you intend to sunbathe, or be outdoors for longer periods, it is important to take practical steps to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun."

Don't forget to install a shower filter to remove chemicals, limescale and heavy metals in your shower water. Protecting yourself and your family!

The pureshowers team

Please visit our shower filter online store at http://www.pureshowers.co.uk.