The Sun & Its Effects May 2104

Health Info prepared by Public Health Vitalité Health Network May 2014

The sun and its effects..

The sun: Provides light and warms you Helps your skin to produce vitamin D Can kill germs Positively impacts your mood

Did you know that… The sun is 150 million km away from the Earth! Without the sun, life would not be sustainable…it would be dark and very cold!

However… Staying in the sun too long can cause: Sunburn Aging of the skin Skin cancer Eye problems A weaker immune system

Sunscreen can protect you! Look for : –A high SPF (at least 15 ) –A « broad spectrum » (UVA and UVB protection) –A water-resistant cream

Sunscreen can protect you! Apply it: –When the UV index is 3 or higher – In advance (at least 20 minutes before going out in the sun) – Often (at least every 2 hours) –After swimming or doing intense activity –On all exposed areas

Important facts: Sunscreens can help to reduce sunburn but they are not as effective against the other UV rays adverse effects.

You must also: Cover yourself when you are in the sun (wear long sleeves, hat and glasses); Limit the time you spend in the sun (especially between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm); Drink plenty of water

Don’t forget… You can enjoy the sun and all its benefits…but do it safely!