Know your skin type! The effects of sunlight are not the same for everyone
First published June 2017; updated June 2021 Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Ireland and in fair/light skinned populations worldwide, for whom sunburn is a risk factor. Yet, in most cases, it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer – the vast majority are associated with overexposure to ultraviolet […]
Confused about the UV Index?
First published June 2017; updated June 2021 What is solar ultraviolet radiation? Ultraviolet radiation (UV) is a component of sunlight. The two types of UV that we need to be concerned about are UVA and UVB. What is the UV index? The UV index is a scale that was developed by the World Health Organisation […]
Seasonal UV Changes and Protecting Our Skin
First published May 2020, updated June 2021 Knowing a little bit about Earth’s relationship with the Sun allows us to understand how the intensity of the Sun’s rays can change during the year, and the importance of protecting our skin. What causes the change in seasons? Earth revolves around the Sun, taking a year to […]
No sunscreen can provide 100% UV protection
First published June 2017; updated June 2021 The role of sunscreen Alongside other protective measures, such as clothing and shade, sunscreens play an important preventative role against the acute and long-term effects of overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun, including: sunburn, skin damage, premature ageing of the skin and skin cancer. Solar UV […]
Protecting your family while out in the sunshine
First published in June 2017, updated June 2021 Playing and spending time outdoors is such an important part of childhood but it is crucial that children are protected and safe in the sun. Increased vulnerability Compared with adults, children’s skin is much more vulnerable to the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. Young children’s […]
Being SunSmart: At a glance
Why be SunSmart? Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Ireland. Yet, in most cases, it is also one of the most preventable forms of cancer. You can reduce your risk by avoiding overexposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV) from sunlight or artificial sources e.g. sunbeds. Reduce your risk, protect your skin: Be […]
When are UV rays at their strongest?
First published June 2017; updated May 2020 What is Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation? UV radiation in sunlight damages our skin. UV radiation cannot be seen or felt (infrared radiation causes heat, not UV). It can damage skin on cool, cloudy days and hot sunny days! UV radiation comes directly from the sun and is influenced by […]
How long before going out in the sun should I apply sunscreen?
First published June 2017; updated May 2020 There are many different types of sunscreens available, including creams, gels and lotions, and when applied properly, they will provide good protection. When choosing a sunscreen ensure that it is broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30+, with high UVA protection, […]
Seasonal UV Changes and Protecting Our Skin
Knowing a little bit about Earth’s relationship with the Sun allows us to understand how the intensity of the Sun’s rays can change during the year, and the importance of protecting our skin. What causes the change in seasons? Earth revolves around the Sun, taking a year to complete one orbit. But as it does […]
New Report Documents Sunburn, SunSmart Behaviours and Sunbed Use by Children in Ireland for the First Time
A new report titled, Children’s exposure to ultraviolet radiation – a risk profile for future skin cancers in Ireland, which was published on June 17th 2020, presents findings on children’s exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and sunbeds, UV skin protection behaviours, and sunburn. High-risk groups: children and young people The report was […]
