30/07/2026
As a consultant dermatologist keeping my skin healthy and protected is my top priority... I love a beach holiday though - I can totally relax, restore and it's an important time to make special memories with our children. So how can you enjoy a beach holiday safely? These are the 5 tips that I regularly follow.. Are you doing all 5 too??!
1. Apply a good quality high UVA (5 star or pa++++) and high UVB (50+) before you hit the beach. This allows it to soak in properly before you go into the water. Don't forget to reapply regularly . It will wash/ sweat off at the beach.
2. Seek shade especially around midday. Sweating out in the heat of the sun is not my idea of fun. As a family we also have non negotiable time indoors at lunch in the AC to rehydrate and give our skin a break.
3. Wear a hat! Wide brimmed is best as it will help to protect your face and neck also. A light colour will also reflect the heat keeping your head cooler.
4. Don't forget your eyes! Sunglasses are a great fashion statement and fun to wear but also are essential to prevent visual problems such as cataracts, macular degeneration and skin cancers of the eyelids.
5. Think about your clothing. I always go for tops that cover my shoulders. Remember that water reflects the UV rays onto your skin so the shoulders and back are especially prone to burning while you swim.
Time to sit back and relax...
