Rules for sun exposure

The rules of sun exposure

Depending on the context and type of sun radiation, which varies according to altitude, latitude, season and time of day, it is recommended to protect yourself from ALL the sun's rays (even though UVB rays are the main cause of cause sunburn).

Rule 1: choose the right time to go out in the sun

At "solar noon", or 12pm to 4pm, get in the shade! This is when the sun is at its peak, i.e. highest in the sky: it's the time when UV radiation is most intense and therefore most dangerous. Avoid going out in the sun during this peak time.

Rule 2: clothing protection

Covering up with clothing is the safest way to protect your skin from the sun. So don't skimp on clothing and accessories: wear a t-shirt, hat or cap and sunglasses. This is the winning combination to protect your shoulders, top of your head and eyes. The sun can cause damage to the eyes which can lead to serious vision problems (e.g. cataracts). There’s only one thing to remember: shade and sunglasses from an early age!

Rule 3: sun cream reflex

To protect your skin, choose a good sun protection product with high UV protection, or SPF, that suits your phototype and skin type (sensitive, intolerant or fragile). If you want to tick all the boxes, you should also choose sun protection that has mineral and organic sun filters, is water and sweat resistant, hypoallergenic and fragrance free. Apply your sun protection to all exposed areas, including the neck and the backs of the hands, and (most importantly) remember to reapply at least every two hours, and every time you swim, towel off or sweat. 

Rule 4: stay hydrated!

In the sun, you get hot very quickly. To avoid sunstroke and dehydration, remember to drink plenty of water. Whether still or sparkling, from a flask or bottle, it doesn't matter - as long as you remember to drink it!

Rule 5: everything in moderation

The sun can get under your skin, so don't overdo it. Taking breaks between sun exposure allows the skin to "take a breather" before you go out in the sun again. But be mindful of your sun capital and the cumulative effects of the sun.

FRIENDLY, EXPERT ADVICE

When not to go out in the sun (at all)

It's important to avoid sun exposure at all costs in the following cases:

• When the sun is at its peak,
• When you have insufficient sun protection,
• For babies and young children, whose skin is more fragile than ours,
• If you have a sunburn that hasn't healed yet,
• If you’re taking photosensitising drugs (such as anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics).

These rules need to be instilled in the youngest children from an early age and should be even more scrupulously observed for children with more fragile skin.