The Irish Times: ‘We all want to enjoy time in the sun, but it’s important to be careful,’ says mother of woman (33) who died of melanoma
The below article, ‘We all want to enjoy time in the sun, but it’s important to be careful,’ says mother of woman (33) who died of melanoma, written by Arlene Harris, was published in The Irish Times on 20 July 2024. ‘Neither of us thought that it would be something so serious,’ says Bernie Rice […]
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 […]
What is solar UV radiation and why you need to know about it…?
First published June 2017; updated June 2021 What is solar ultraviolet radiation? Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is one of the three major components of sunlight, which include visible light and infrared (heat). It is divided into three categories, classified according to wavelength: UVA, UVB and UVC. The ozone layer blocks all UVC and most (90% or […]
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 […]
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 […]
Protect your child against sun damage!
Playing and spending time outdoors is a really important part of childhood, but it is crucial that children are protected and safe while having fun in the sun. Childhood: a critical time Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Ireland with over 11,000 cases diagnosed each year and the number of cases […]
