The Sun & Its EffectsMay 2104

Health Infoprepared by

Public Health Vitalité Health Network

May 2014

The sun and its effects..

The sun:

• Provides light and warms you

• Helps your skin to produce vitamin D

• Can kill germs

• Positively impacts your mood

Did you know that…The sun is 150 million km away from

the Earth!Without the sun, life would not be sustainable…it would be dark and

very cold!

However…Staying in the sun too long can

cause:• Sunburn• Aging of the skin• Skin cancer• Eye problems• A weaker immune system

Sunscreen can protect you!Look for:

– A high SPF (at least15)– A « broad spectrum » (UVA and

UVB protection)– A water-resistant

cream

Sunscreen can protect you!Apply it:

– When the UV index is 3 or higher– In advance (at least 20 minutes before

going out in the sun)– Often (at least every 2 hours)– After swimming or doing intense

activity– On all exposed areas

Important facts:

Sunscreens can help to reduce sunburn

but they are not as effective against the

other UV rays adverse effects.

You must also:• Cover yourself when you

are in the sun (wear long sleeves, hat and glasses);

• Limit the time you spend in the sun (especially between 11:00 am and 4:00 pm);

• Drink plenty of water

Don’t forget…You can enjoy the sun and all its benefits…but do it safely!