Overexposure to the sun and UV rays is rarely obvious at the time, -- and on many occasions, probably quite unintentional. However repeated exposure has rather more adverse long-term implications for our bodies and our health.

Were all well aware of the more obvious and painful symptoms of sunburn including hot, red, tender skin which in the case of a more heavy burn can also include blistering, peeling and dehydration.

The damage that occurs beneath the skin as a result of sunburn is considerably less obvious at the time of exposure, and may in fact take years to produce symptoms visible to the naked eye.

The fact that damage caused to skin cells during sunburn can not only accelerate the aging process, but also increase the risk of cataracts and skin cancer, should certainly demand our attention.

When faced with the potential risk of having to treat more than just the temporary symptoms and pain of sunburn, doesnt it make more sense to avoid the risk in the first place?

Seek prevention rather than cure!

So before you venture out into the sun again, remember these important tips to protect yourself from overexposure of UV rays and sunburn, and its associated risks:

1. Wear protective clothing, including a long-sleeve shirt and a hat. Consider the additional protection of an umbrella or shade where appropriate.

2. Avoid sun exposure between 10 am and 3 pm if at all possible.

3. Remember that UV rays are present even on cloudy days.

4. Remember that sunlight is strongly reflected from sand, snow, ice, water and concrete, which can intensify your direct sunlight exposure.

5. Apply sunscreen containing a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, at least 15 minutes before going out into the sun.

6. Reapply sunscreen at regular intervals while out in the sun, especially if you are perspiring heavily or swimming.

7. Remember that UV overexposure is not limited to sun exposure. Sunburn can also occur as a result of UV exposure from other sources including tanning beds/lamps, welding arcs etc.

Prevention is a far better treatment than cure. In the event however, that you discover any unusual moles or growths on your skin (particularly if theyre irregular in shape, bleed, itch, or appear to be changing) - consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

When it comes to overexposure of UV rays and sunburn that result in skin cancer, early detection will certainly assist in providing you with more effective treatment. But considering your options beforehand what will provide the best outcome for your health? Prevention or Cure? I know which one Id choose...!

Angela Perin

Angela Perin has been involved in her own various businesses since the early 1990?s. Together with her husband Dennis, these activities have included wholesale, retail, import, export and manufacture, of a variety of different products.

For many years, Angela and Dennis have taken responsibility for their own health and that of their children. In addition to enjoying healthy lifestyle habits, they follow alternate health practices and treatments (which has included home birth), and take responsibility for the education of their 3 daughters whom they home-school.

In recent years, Angela has actively pursued her interest and commitment to personal and professional development. She has attended numerous courses and seminars ? both within Australia (where she resides), and also overseas. These have had a tremendous impact on her life, resulting in both immediate, and long-term changes - both to her beliefs as well as her patterns of behavior.

Angela?s journey in regard to her own personal growth, resulted in her discovery and passion for the Internet late in 2003. She has developed, and is Webmaster of several websites, and is passionate and committed to providing value - along with quality products, information and content - to her web visitors. Having mastered her ability to self direct and motivate, she enjoys researching, and learning new skills and implementing new functions into her websites.

Angela enjoys the role as editor for her Safe Tan Ezine which features practical articles and tips on Beauty, Fitness, Nutrition and more. This has not only allowed her the opportunity to develop many new skills, but also to share her personal experience and provide practical, useful content to her subscribers.