Sometimes a spell in a hot climate can do you the world of good. However, over-exposure to the sun’s rays can cause you many problems if you are not careful, especially if you have a pale complexion. However, if you take these simple precautions, you can enjoy the sun’s rays without compromising your health.

The ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are at their most harmful in the hours around midday, so you should avoid exposure to direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm. That doesn’t mean you have to stay indoors, you could sit under a tree or parasol, or you could wear a wide-brimmed hat and loose clothing to protect you.

If you stay in the sun for too long, the UV rays can damage your skin cells and make your blood vessels swell, which can cause blisters and make skin hot and painful. Furthermore, sunburn can increase risk of skin cancer. Even if it is not hot, the sun can still damage your skin. The best way to combat sunburn is to cover up as much as possible. Try to avoid getting clothing wet, as this causes the material to stretch, which lets more UV rays through.

You should also rub sunscreen into any exposed area of skin. All sunscreens have a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) which tells you how much protection they give against the sun’s rays. When buying a sunscreen, be sure to get one with an SPF of 15 or above, that is water resistant and that is well within its use by date. Expensive sunscreens may smell a little bit nicer - but cheaper ones can be just as effective - so there is no need go for a more expensive brand.

It's important to apply the sunscreen correctly, as there is a right way and a wrong way to do it. In order to get the best from your sunscreen, you should rub large amounts lightly into clean, dry skin 15-30 minutes before you head outside. Once you are outside, you should re-apply it to make sure you are getting maximum possible coverage, and repeat the application every couple of hours, or more frequently if you’ve been in the water. You should put it on before you put on anything else, such as make up, insect repellent, or moisturiser. And remember, sun cream only allows you a degree of protection against the sun’s rays, and it doesn’t give you a free pass to stay out in the sun longer or to skip all the other precautions.

Remember, as long as you take the necessary precautions there’s nothing to stop you going to hot climates and enjoying the sun’s rays so take a look at travel sites such as Monarch and book up now for holidays to sunny climates!

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