Even if recently the climate seems more autumnal than spring, with the arrival of summer and high temperatures, it is essential that citizens are aware of the risks associated with sun exposure and know how to protect themselves. Nurses play a fundamental role in giving advice and useful information to better face the summer season.
Hydration is important
First of all, it is important to remember the importance of hydrating adequately, especially during the hottest days, avoiding alcoholic and sugary drinks which can instead contribute to dehydration.
We protect the skin
Furthermore, it is essential to protect the skin from harmful UV rays by using sunscreens with a high sun protection factor (SPF) and wearing light clothing and hats during the hottest hours of the day. The World Health Organization has listed solar UV radiation as a proven human carcinogen. There is evidence on the importance of sunscreens in protecting the skin from cancer which is now overwhelming and widely accepted by the scientific community. At a molecular level, in fact, UV light from the sun damages the cellular DNA of the skin, creating genetic mutations that can lead to skin cancer. Next to this, the sun’s UV rays are a well-known factor in premature skin aging (photo-aging). Therefore, the use of sun protection factors is recommended precisely for their prophylactic action on photocarcinogenesis because they are designed to filter most of the sun’s UVB radiation. The skin phototype indicates the skin’s reaction to sun exposure and can vary from person to person. It is important to choose a sunscreen suitable for your phototype to ensure effective protection and prevent damage caused by UV rays. People with very fair skin, with freckles and red hair, or who tend to tan slowly should use a sunscreen with a high protection factor (SPF 50+) and with UVA and UVB filters. Those who have a low risk of burning can use a medium protection factor (SPF 15-30), with UVA and UVB filters.
The cream several times a day
In all cases, it is important to apply sunscreen abundantly and repeatedly during sun exposure, and also protect your eyes, lips, hair and ears with specific products. In conclusion, nurses play a fundamental role in advising citizens on how to best face the summer season and protect their health. Thanks to their experience and expertise, they can help raise awareness among the population about the risks associated with sun exposure and provide practical indications to prevent health problems such as dehydration during the summer.
