Summer’s a great time for relaxing and getting a much needed dose of vitamin D. Now that the warm and sunny weather is here we’re all glad to ditch those winter clothes. But there are dangers in showing too much flesh off in the hot sun, so NHS Suffolk is encouraging people to stay aware of the damage too much exposure can cause to your skin.

Too much sun could make your skin look old and wrinkly, or even worse you could go blind or get skin cancer!

Using sunscreen is one of the best ways to protect your skin. All bottles of sunscreen will have their level of sun protection factor (SPF) listed – use one with an SPF of 15 or more.

You need to apply sunscreen regularly as it can be sweated or washed off, so take extra care if you’re attempting your first dip in the outdoor pool or enjoying a vigorous game of tennis. Strawberries maybe the traditional dish – but you don’t want to look like one!

Don’t be tempted to stay out in the sun too long, you’ll burn your skin and you’ll end up bright red and sore -  not an attractive look and getting burnt increases the risk of skin cancer.  Make sure you spend time in the shade or indoors especially between 11am and 2pm.

To protect your eyes from the damaging rays of the sun, sunglasses are a great summer accessory, so make sure you stock up!

And, finally, sometimes more is less. Covering up your body with light summer clothes needn’t be boring, keep an eye out for oversized shirts and sun hats; not only will you look on trend you’ll also be saving your skin from sun damage.

If you want to find out more about skin cancer and how you can protect yourself visit click here