Novus Health: Enjoy the sunshine but don’t forget to protect your skin!
With the warmer weather finally here and many of us looking forward to holidays, days out and spending more time outdoors, now is the perfect time to think about looking after our skin.
Whether you're heading abroad, enjoying a family barbecue, gardening, walking the dog or simply sitting outside with a cup of tea, it's important to remember that the sun can affect your skin more than you might think.
One of the biggest myths about sun protection is that sunscreen is only needed on hot, sunny days. That’s not true. The sun's harmful rays can still reach your skin when it's cloudy. That means your skin can still be damaged even when the weather doesn't seem particularly warm.
That's why wearing sunscreen should be part of your everyday routine during the spring and summer months. Choosing a sunscreen with SPF 30 or above can help protect your skin from damage caused by the sun. Remember to apply it before going outside and reapply it regularly throughout the day, especially if you're swimming or sweating.
Of course, sunscreen isn't the only way to protect yourself. Wearing a hat, sunglasses and light clothing that covers your skin can all help. It's also a good idea to seek shade during the hottest part of the day whenever possible.
Looking after your skin now can help prevent problems later on, but it's also important to keep an eye out for any changes to your skin.
Most moles, marks and skin changes are completely harmless, but it's always worth getting them checked if something doesn't look or feel quite right.
Some signs to look out for include:
• A new mole or mark on your skin• A mole that changes shape, size or colour• A sore that doesn't heal• A patch of skin that is dry, crusty or keeps coming back• A lump or bump that is growing• A mark that itches, bleeds or becomes painful
The earlier any concerns are checked, the better. In many cases it may be nothing to worry about, but getting advice can give you peace of mind.
At Novus Health, we provide a Dermatology Service for patients who have concerns about their skin and have been referred by their GP. Our experienced teams work closely with local GP practices to help patients access specialist care when they need it.
As we make the most of the sunshine this summer, remember that protecting your skin is one of the simplest things you can do for your health. A few minutes spent applying sunscreen today could make a big difference in the future.
If you notice anything unusual about your skin, don't ignore it. Speak to your GP, who can assess your concerns and, if appropriate, refer you to Novus Health's Dermatology Service.
Stay safe, enjoy the sunshine and don't forget your SPF even when it's cloudy.