Travelling is fun and exciting, but it can also come with potential risks. An article on the dangers of taking flights highlights a hazard that most passengers do not usually consider: ultraviolet (UV) rays. When you travel by plane, the intensity of UV radiation is much higher because you’re much closer to the sun. UV exposure can also happen when you’re travelling by land or sea, particularly in sunnier locales. If not addressed, this can lead to skin and eye damage, especially for frequent travellers.
To ensure that you get to enjoy your adventures safely and healthily, it’s important to take extra precautions against the risks of harmful light and UV exposure when you travel. Here’s a closer look at how the sun can damage your skin and why you should always remember to bring sun protection on your trip:
Skin and the sun
Whether you’re out on the beach or in the mountains, exposure to harmful UV light can cause sunburns, premature skin ageing, and skin cancer. The skin’s outer layer contains a pigment called melanin, which protects you from UV rays. However, too many of these harmful rays can reduce the skin’s elasticity, leading to premature ageing. If you’re a traveller who is frequently exposed to the sun, you are at a higher risk of developing skin cancer as prolonged exposure to UV rays can also penetrate deeper skin layers and damage or kill cells.
Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer globally, according to an article from Cosmos on sun safety guidelines. The Cancer Council approximates that two in three Australians are at risk of being diagnosed with skin cancer during their lifetime. This is why it’s important to pack sun protection when you travel anywhere – whether you’re heading towards the Great Barrier Reef, planning to surf on the Gold Coast, or going to other countries. Here are some items you can bring to protect your skin during a trip:
What to bring
Sunscreen
Sunscreens contain minerals that help block and scatter UV rays to prevent them from damaging your skin. You’ll need a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 to lower your risk of developing skin cancer, so be sure to pack sunscreens containing the minimum required SPF or higher for better protection, especially if you’re planning to swim or get a tan on the beach. In our previous article on sustainable skincare, we highlighted VitaSea as a product that can help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV light. The SPF in their sunscreens ranges from 30 to 50, and their products adhere to the Hawaii Reef Compliant Act 104 and do not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate.
Sunglasses
Aside from your skin, your eyes are also at risk of incurring vision problems like cataracts and macular degeneration due to prolonged exposure to UV rays. Be sure to bring sunglasses with lenses that have UV protection to avoid damaging your vision during a daytime trip. Retailer Sunglass Hut allows you to choose from a variety of frames, from square to oversized shapes, that protect the skin around your eyes. You can also pick from designer brands, so whether you want to sport the classic Ray-Ban Wayfarer or Gucci’s GG0890s, you’ll be able to find the perfect pair for your trip in just a few clicks.
Wide-brimmed hat
Long walks during a daytime tour may expose your facial skin to the sun, which could cause sunburn. It can also affect your hair’s protein structure, resulting in dry and frizzy hair. To avoid these, be sure to bring a wide-brimmed hat to your trip. This accessory not only protects your hair and your skin from harmful UV rays but can also be a great addition to your look. For style inspo, the wide-brimmed hats worn by some celebrities like Carrie Bickmore can provide an added layer of protection. Cotton On’s Freya Felt Panama is a good choice if you want a hat that’s easy to pack and goes well with a variety of outfits.
Setting out on an adventure can be fun, but be sure to pack essentials that help protect your skin from the sun. For more travel tips, be sure to check out Global Travel Media for updates.
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