The sun, sunscreens and you

The sun is the strongest between 10am and 3pm and even stronger in the summer and closer to the equator. Remember, you don't have to be at the beach to end up with a sunburn - any exposure to the sun makes you vulnerable.

The best way to completely block the sun is to wear a wide-brimmed hat, clothing and sunglasses.

Adverse skin reactions
Certain medications and chemicals can make you sunburn more easily and can provoke other irritations. Before taking any medication, always ask your doctor or pharmacist if the drug can make you photosensitive, making sun exposure a problem.

Here are some of the drugs that cause sensitivities:

Note: Although alpha-hydroxy acids are not drugs, they will increase your chances of sunburn and skin damage when applied to the skin.