The Telegraph: Sunscreen Truths & Expert Advice

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The Telegraph looked into sunscreen with expert advice from Dr Ross Perry on how to protect the skin from sun exposure. The feature was titled:

Everything you need to know about sunscreen (including the truth about SPF 100)

Choosing Sunscreen

Dr Ross Perry told Telegraph readers that there is no need to spend a fortune on sunscreen unless you have sensitivities to certain ingredients.

He says:

“Start at the lower end of the spectrum – a Boots or chemist range is more than sufficient.

“The most important thing is liberal application, and if it’s too expensive, you might worry about putting too much on.”

Research has shown that many people apply less sunscreen than they need to get full coverage or protection. It should be generously and regularly applied.

Some may want to skimp and make it last, others are possibly trying to let a bit of sun through so that they do get a bit of tan without burning. Some do not reapply regularly enough, especially when out in the sun all day, sweating and/or swimming.

Applying sunscreen correctly is key to getting the right protection.

Dr Perry suggested:

  • Put sunscreen on about 15 minutes before going outside
  • Top-up regularly – use common sense for this
    • If it’s not particularly hot and you’re not outside much, once a day may suffice
    • If you are on a beach holiday, sunbathing, sweating and swimming, then top up every couple of hours.
    • Always reapply sunscreen straight after swimming
  • Sun cream should be applied anywhere that will be exposed to the sun
  • You still need sunscreen in the shade and on cloudy days

Sunscreen Ingredients

Recently, there have been media reports raising concern over certain sunscreen ingredients, which some people may find worrying. One report has suggested that sun cream contains chemicals that may be absorbed into the blood, although there is no evidence that the chemicals are harmful. Another concern is whether sunscreen chemicals could be harmful for sea life.

Dr Ross Perry comments:

“It’s one of those things you have to weigh up, protecting your skin versus being potentially environmentally unfriendly.”

Sunscreens are available that avoid chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate and octocrylene although they tend to be more expensive.

Wearing protective clothing is also helpful – UV protection ‘rash vests’ keep the sun off bodies while swimming (although sun protection is still recommended and is especially required for any areas not covered). Hats, sunglasses, long trousers and long sleeves all can be worn to minimise exposure to the UV rays.

Finally, avoiding the sun at its peak by staying indoors or in good shade 11-3pm helps to protect the skin from the sun’s full strength.

Read this article in full

To read more, please visit https://www.telegraph.co.uk/health-fitness/body/everything-need-know-sunscreen-including-truth-spf-100/ (registration/subscription required to view in full. Register to access 1 free article every week).

dr-ross-perryDr Ross Perry

Dr Perry is renowned as an expert in removal of skin lesions. He has removed thousands of moles in his role as Medical Director and founder of Cosmedics Skin Clinics including the London mole Removal Centre.

His career includes working in the NHS both in skin cancer reconstruction and as a GP, so he is experienced and expert in diagnosing skin lesions and providing the best possible advice/treatment.

Private Mole Checks & Removal

The London Mole Removal Centre is a private company, offering private mole checks and treatment for unwanted moles and other skin lesions (e.g. cysts, skin tags, warts, verruca, lipoma, xanthelasma). All consultations and treatments are carried out in person by doctors who are specially trained in the latest laser and skin surgery techniques and are highly experienced in the field.

Further advantages of private treatment at the London Mole Removal Centre include:

  • No waiting lists
  • Fully trained doctors, registered with GMC
  • Moles can often be removed in the same appointment as the consultation, saving the need for a repeat visit and allowing patients to get their skin lesions removed very quickly
  • Choice of 4 clinics in London and also Bristol
  • Removed moles tested with report provided

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7731 3791.