August 2022

A new survey reveals that whilst over 50’s are aware of the importance of wearing sunscreen abroad, they may neglect to use it whilst in the UK.

Whilst only 12% of people surveyed over the age of 50 stated that they rarely use sunscreen whilst abroad in a hot country, this increases dramatically to 45% of respondents who rarely use sunscreen during the summer in the UK.

Although many people now understand how vital it is to wear sunscreen whilst in a hot country, it is also crucial to be aware of the importance of using sunscreen whilst in the UK to prevent skin damage.  The sun emits harmful UV rays every day and a significant amount of UV rays can penetrate the cloud, highlighting how important sunscreen is every day of the year. 

Dr Derrick Phillips, Consultant Dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson, comments 'Skin cancer is largely preventable however the rates of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma (the three most common types of skin cancer) continue to rise in the UK. This is a worrying trend that we must reverse. It is a myth that sun exposure in the UK is less harmful than holiday sun. Prolonged sun exposure without sunscreen can lead to sunburn, sun damage and ultimately skin cancer, whether it’s in the UK or abroad. It is therefore important to regularly apply high factor sunscreen (SPF 30+ with 5-star UVA protection) during hot UK summers, as you would if you were abroad.'

Matthew Patey, CEO of British Skin Foundation says ‘The sun emits UV rays all year round and up to 80% of UV rays can penetrate through clouds. We know that wearing sunscreen prevents most of the sun’s harmful rays from reaching our skin and significantly reduces the likelihood of developing skin cancer. It’s really important to wear sunscreen all year round, no matter the weather outside.’

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