sun

saw this article in "the star" newspaper few days back..
edited a bit..feel like posting it here..so i post it here..

Ultraviolet (UV) light
It is a scientific fact that UV radiation is the main causative factor for skin cancer. UV light is responsible for over 90% of all skin cancers. Skin types and skin cancer risk

Apart from sun exposure, your skin type is the main factor determining the risk of skin cancers.

There are six skin types, ranging in colour from type I (white) to type VI (black). In this country, the Chinese and Malays usually have type III and IV skin (yellow or light brown), while the Indians usually have type V (dark brown) or type VI (black) skin. This is of course a generalisation and there are individuals from each race who are much fairer.

Fair individuals with skin types I and II have the highest risk of skin cancer. People with type V and VI are at the lowest risk because those with more pigmentation have more natural protection from the sun. Individuals with skin types III and IV will have intermediate risk.

You should:

1. Seek the shade when appropriate, remembering the sun’s rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm.

2. Be extra careful near water, snow and sand as they reflect UV light and increase your chances of sunburn. Snow reflects 80% of light, sand 17%.

3. Use a sunscreen

4. wear protective clothing

5. Consider using UV protective films

Choose a sunscreen with a sun protective factor (SPF) of at least 15 that provides wide spectrum protection against both UVB and UVA.

Sunscreens should be applied 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors to allow the ingredients to fully bind to the skin. Reapply every two hours if you are in the sun for a long period.

As a rule, light coloured, lightweight and loosely woven fabric do not provide adequate protection. A white, thin, cotton T-shirt provides only limited protection, with an average UPF of 7.

At the other end of the spectrum, a long sleeved, thick, dark denim shirt can offer an UPF of 1,700, which amounts to complete sun-block. Dark colours like black, blue or dark green gives better UPF than white. Unfortunately the favoured “summer clothes” are usually lightweight, light-coloured and skimpy.