Good sun protection in the elderly especially important

Good sun protection in the elderly especially important / Health News
Pay special attention to sun protection in old age
Finally the summer shows itself in its full splendor. Temperatures of more than 30 degrees drive people into outdoor pools and lakes. All people out there should think about having enough sunscreen. This is especially true for seniors: in older age the skin is more sensitive.


Good sun protection for seniors
Although sunbeams raise the mood and are good for the body and well-being in low dose. But too much UV radiation can quickly be harmful to health and lead to, among other things, sunburn and, in the longer term, skin cancer. Older people are much more at risk than younger people. For seniors, a good sunscreen is therefore mandatory. According to experts, they should always use a minimum SPF of 15 and better avoid sunbathing.

Those who spend more time outdoors should always pay attention to adequate sun protection. This is especially true for seniors. As you age, the skin becomes more sensitive to the sun's rays. (Image: contrastwerkstatt / fotolia.com)

Elderly skin becomes more sensitive
According to the pharmacy magazine "Senioren Ratgeber" (7/2016), it takes longer for the skin to develop protective pigments. Sunburns are not only faster, but also slower. Therefore, it is important to protect the skin effectively against UV-A and UV-B rays, especially during prolonged exposure such as on vacation on the beach or at the lake. Sand and water reflect the dangerous ultraviolet radiation. The Hamburg pharmacist Barbara Schneider explained in the magazine: "Sufficiently high sun protection factor, apply thick and neck, forehead and ears not forget!"

Additional dangers due to medication
Seniors should also consider possible interactions of the sun and medications. For example, some medicines such as antibiotics, antidiabetics, antihypertensives, rheumatics or psychotropic drugs in combination with UV-A radiation may cause a phototoxic reaction, with symptoms ranging from redness and burning pain to severe burns. According to Schneider, people who spend a lot of time should also apply sun protection with a sun protection factor even in moderate sun or overcast skies. The protection of the lips should not be forgotten - this can also prevent herpes. (Ad)