Knowing your skin type is important when it comes to knowing how much time to spend in the sunshine.
As Northern Ireland enjoys hot weather and sunny spells, it’s important to make sure your time in the sun is safe to reduce the risk of skin cancer in the future.
Skin cancer normally presents itself years in the future, so it’s better to think about protecting yourself now than later down the line.
The time you should spend in the sun may be less than you think, for example, those with pale skin are advised that just 10-15 minutes in the sun a day is enough.
Here’s everything you need to know to enjoy the sun worry free.
What is your skin type?
There are six different types of skin pigment which act differently in response to ultra violet (UV) light.
They’re on a scale, known as the Fitzpatrick Scale.
Type 1
Type 1 skin always burns and never tans. It’s common in people with pale white skin, blue/green eyes, and blonde or red hair.
Type 2
This skin type burns easily and tans poorly. It’s most commonly seen in those with fair skin and/or blue eyes.
Type 3
Type 3 skin is darker white skin that tans after an initial burn.
Type 4
Type 4 is light brown skin that burns minimally and tans easily.
Type 5
Type 5 is brown skin that rarely burns but tans darkly easily.
Type 6
Type 6 is dark brown or black skin that never burns and always tans darkly.
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What you skin type means for you in the sun
Types 1 and 2:
If your skin type is 1 or 2, you have a high risk of:
- sun damage
- skin aging from sun exposure
- melanoma and other skin cancers
You should follow these tips to protect your skin:
- Use a sun cream with an SPF of 30 or greater.
- Limit your sun exposure and seek shade whenever you’re out in the sun.
- Wear a hat with a wide brim to protect your head and face.
- Wear UB-blocking sunglasses.
- Wear protective clothing with a UPF rating of 30 or higher if you plan to be in direct sunlight for extended periods.
- Check your skin from head to toe each month.
- Have an annual skin check-up with a doctor.
Types 3 to 6:
If your skin is type 3 to 6, you still have some risk of skin cancer from sun exposure, especially if you’ve used an indoor tanning bed.
You should still use sun protection even though your risk is lower than it is for people with type 1 or 2 skin.
For maximum protection, you should follow these tips:
- Limit your sun exposure.
- Wear a hat with a wide brim to protect your head and face.
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Wear protective clothing if you plan to be in direct sunlight for extended periods.
- Wear sun cream with an SPF of 15 or greater.
- Check your skin from head to toe each month. Pay careful attention to any strange growths.
- Have an annual skin check-up with a doctor.
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