An expert is cautioning people about the areas most commonly missed when applying suncream in hot weather. Despite what many believe, it’s surprisingly easy to get burnt by the sun and UV rays in the UK, even on overcast days.
Sunscreen should be applied to all exposed skin, including the face, neck and ears, and the head if you have thinning or no hair, though a wide-brimmed hat is preferable.
However, according to specialists at Which?, there are several spots people frequently neglect to apply factor 30 or 50, which could result in painful and uncomfortable burns.
The expert cautioned that those not wearing sunglasses will need to apply suncream to their eyelids for adequate protection.
They further noted that people routinely forget to apply suncream to their armpits, and offered guidance on the correct way to do so.
The expert said: “Armpits, make sure you apply [suncream] before deodorant and reapply if you’re sweating. And don’t forget the back of your hands.”
Additional areas that are frequently overlooked include lips, feet and behind the knees, heels, ankles, soles and between the toes.
The NHS advises that both adults and children should avoid direct sunlight between 11am and 3pm, the period when the sun is at its most intense between March and October. It also advises never allowing yourself to burn, covering up with clothing and sunglasses, taking extra care with children and using at least factor 30 sunscreen, reapplying it regularly.
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Extra care should be taken to protect babies and young children in particular. Their skin is far more sensitive than that of adults, and damage caused by repeated sun exposure could result in skin cancer developing later in life.
Should you find yourself suffering from sunburn, however, the NHS advises sponging the affected skin with cool water or taking a cool bath or shower, before applying a soothing aftersun cream or spray, such as aloe vera.
Painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, are also suggested to relieve the pain by helping to reduce the inflammation caused by sunburn. People are strongly urged to seek medical attention if they feel unwell or the skin swells badly or blisters.