Sun Fun

As summer fades and winter rears its head, people in certain parts of the globe are gearing up to try and stay warm and cozy. But others like us in Mumbai, who are blessed with sunshine all year round, barely feel the change in season, and continue to bask in the seemingly eternal warmth of the sun. While the sunshine is milder in winter, it can still wreak havoc on your skin, especially if you don't take the proper precautions before venturing out. Once your skin is damaged by excessive UV radiation, it will never repair itself. If you were in doubt as to the damage sun can wreak, here's a refresher:  Premature wrinkling Skin cancer Dries the skin Sunburn Freckles So keep these tips in mind before stepping out: 1. Never, ever step out in the sun without wearing a sunscreen lotion. 2. If you are dusky skinned and a tan does not show up, this does NOT mean you are any less at risk of suffering the damage caused by UV radiation. 3. What kind of lotion should you apply Well, look for one which has an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 15. This means that it will protect your skin for 15 times longer than if you had no sunscreen. It does not mean it offers stronger protection, but that it offers longer lasting protection. It all depends on how sensitive your skin is to the sun. Thus, if your skin starts going red after you've been in the sun for ten minutes, you will be able to stand the sun for 1 and a half hours if you use an SPF of 15. 4. If your skin is extra sensitive, go in for a sun tan lotion with a higher SPF. 5. Apply the lotion at least 15 minutes before exposure to the sun. 6. If you are going swimming, make sure you wear a water-resistant sunscreen. The combination of chlorine and water is murder for your skin! 7. Don't forget your lips! Lips are sensitive, and they require special protection because they can't tan. Lipstick is better than nude lips, and if you can get your hands on a lipstick which offers UV protection, there's nothing like it! 8. Remember, a sun tan lotion will not prevent you from tanning. It will, however, filter out harmful UV radiation. 9. Stay in the shade as much as possible, especially between 11 am and 3 pm. The sun is at its hottest at this time. 10. When you get home after being in the sun for some time, apply an after-sun lotion. This moisturizes your skin, and it also has certain ingredients especially for sun-exposed skin.