The sun has got his hat on....

...Hip! Hip! Hip! Hooray!
The sun has finally come out in Scotland so we thought it was timely to let remind you of how to keep you and your family safe in the sun.Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. The higher the SPF, the better. Go for broad-spectrum sunscreens, which protect against harmful UVA and UVB rays. Make sure the product is not past its expiry date. Most sunscreens have a shelf life of two to three years.

• Don’t spend any longer in the sun than you would without sunscreen. Sunscreen should not be used as an excuse to stay out in the sun.  The summer sun is most damaging to your skin in the middle of the day. Spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm, under umbrellas, trees, canopies or indoors.
• Water washes off sunscreen and the cooling effect of the water can make you think you're not getting burned. Water also reflects UV rays, increasing your exposure. Even "waterproof" sunscreens should be reapplied after going in the water.
• Remember to pop on a hat as well.

What should I do if I get sunburn?
Painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, will ease the pain. Sponge sore skin with cool water, then apply soothing after sun or calamine lotion. If you feel unwell or the skin swells badly or blisters, seek medical help. Stay out of the sun until all signs of redness have gone.

Barnton Pharmacy has some great offers on sun creams at the moment. Come in and stock up for fun in the sun - whether you are staying at home or lucky enough to be going abroad.