Get the factor 50 out!

Now the suns come out (yay), it's crucial to start getting your sun protection bits together; your hats, sunglasses and suncream. Thinking about sun safety might be the last thing on your mind during long campus days, outdoor social events and study sessions, so let's break it down into some easy, unforgettable tips!

Staying cool in hot weather ☀️

With the temps going up, you might start to feel a bit warm at night, or maybe the communal areas aren't cooling down. Here are a few things you can do:

• Keep rooms cool by closing blinds/curtains during the day
• Wear cool, light clothing
• Drink plenty of water and other cool drinks - avoid hot teas and coffees

At night: 

✅ Open windows at night for ventilation

✅ Get a desk fan to keep you and your room cool throughout the nights

✅ Take a cold shower before bed

✅ Consider using your duvet cover instead of the whole duvet

Pro tip: Fill a bottle halfway with water and leave it in the freezer overnight. In the morning, fill the rest, and then you'll have icy water to keep you cool throughout the day.

5 S's of Sun Safety 😎

• SLIP: Wearing a light jacket, shirt or even a thin scarf over your shoulders and arms can protect your skin and reduce the chances of sunburn - especially if the UV is high!
• SLOP: It's suncream time! Apply suncream at least 20 minutes before you go outside. Wearing an SPF of at least 30 will protect you against the UV - but remember to keep applying it throughout the day.
• SLAP: Slap on a bucket hat or a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face, ears and neck. You can wear a cap or another hat, but it's unlikely to protect your neck or ears.
• SEEK: Seek shade under trees or bring an umbrella outside with you to take breaks from direct UV exposure, particularly between 11am-3pm (this is peak UV time). This can not only prevent sunburn but also heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
• SLIDE: Slide on your sunnies! Make sure you're protecting your eyes from the sun with good-quality sunglasses.

You may feel like all is right with the world when the sun's out, but you can't forget about your sun protection! It can be an easy thing to forget but it can cause dehydration, overheating and sunburns, so it's important to look after yourself! Take breaks and keep drinking water ⛱️