A simple reminder when choosing the sun creams:
UVB is the main cause of skin reddening and sunburn; they cause damage to the skin and also contribute to your skin tanning.
UVB rays can burn you all year around - a good rule to remember is when your shadow is shorter than your height, you are more likely to burn.
Accounting up to a grand total of 95% of the UV radiation reaching the Earth’s surface, are UVA rays, however they are less intense than UVB. What to remember about UVA rays is that they are around for the majority of daylight hours, and remain at an equal intensity. Although don’t mistake UVA for UVB; clouds don’t protect you from UVA rays!
Top 5 Facts to Never Forget:
- You can easily still burn on a cloudy day, underwater, or through a window. UVA rays are very reflective, however UVB rays – not so much.
- Even on overcast skiers, 30-40% of UV will still penetrate through cloud cover.
- 75% of suns burning rays are reflected back from snow, 15% from sand, 10% from concrete and 10% from water.
- Sunglasses should state that they block out 100% of UVA and UVB rays
- Most people don’t apply enough sun protection: an adult should apply at least 2 tablespoons!
