Being severely sunburnt as a child more than doubles the chance of developing future skin cancer but less than half of primary schools questioned in new research have a sun safety policy.
Enrique Torchia, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus; Neil Box, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, and Tamara Terzian, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Widespread screening for skin cancer may not be necessary, but it is important to understand the risks behind UV overexposure and to get checked early if you have concerns.
Our ancient ancestors didn’t have clothes or houses – but that constant exposure to the sun helped their skin protect itself from the worst sun damage.
Rising concern about possible environmental damage from the active ingredients in sunscreens could have ripple effects on public health if it causes people to use less of them.
Tree sunburn tends to occur during hot spring days or in early summer, when trees are full of moisture. So why does it happen? And which trees are most vulnerable?
The key is to avoid lip balms that contain certain additives which might worsen the problem. Instead, try balms that are bland and don’t contain flavours, fragrances and colours.
Too much ultraviolet radiation is dangerous for human health. Excessive exposure can cause skin ageing and sunburn and can induce melanoma, cataracts, ocular melanoma, and immunodeficiency.
UV ratings indicate risk of skin damage – but they’re based on pale skin. New wrist bands designed for six different tones of skin provide a more personalised way to track safe UV exposure.