Date published: 01.09.08 - not release date

TWO OUT OF THREE RISK DAMAGING THEIR SKIN BY UNDERESTIMATING THE STRENGTH OF THE UK SUN

TWO OUT OF THREE RISK DAMAGING THEIR SKIN BY UNDERESTIMATING THE STRENGTH OF THE UK SUN

This summer 68% of people will risk damaging their skin by using inadequate or no sun-protection whilst in the UK. New research has revealed that while most only thought to use sun cream when abroad (43%), others decide not to use it in order to get a better tan (25%)!

The survey of 4,000 people*, conducted by AfterBURN Sunburn Rescue Gel, found nine out of ten people have experienced painful sunburn whilst in the UK. The most common reasons that caused people to get sunburnt in this country were, not realising it was hot enough to need sun cream followed by staying in the sun too long without reapplying sun protection and missing parts of the body when applying sun cream.

Experts recommend using a product with a minimum sun protection factor of 15 and to avoid spending prolonged periods in the midday sun. Worryingly though, 41% would only use sun cream if they saw other sunburnt people around them, 63% won’t get out of the sun until their skin is hot to touch whilst 39% won’t actively seek shade until either their skin goes red. But by this time, it’s too late and the damage is done.

66% admitted that they feel embarrassed when they get sunburnt. Worryingly, 15% believe sunburn is unavoidable, whilst around a quarter of us have felt sick, dizzy or developed blisters after spending time in the UK sun. The most common time when people get caught out by the UK sun is when gardening, followed by when driving with an arm out of the window, when working outdoors or when playing sport.

Doctor. John Ashworth, NHS Consultant Dermatologist, says: “People must appreciate that they don’t need to be overseas on holiday to get sunburnt. Every year UK citizens get caught out by the strength of the UK sun. Sunburn is effectively a radiation burn, with prolonged exposure to the sun causing skin to overheat and become red and painful. If skin is burnt then people should stay out of the sun, drink plenty of water and use a hydrating treatment like AfterBURN to soothe the area and to help repair the skin – conventional aftersun treatments may not be effective and are simply not enough.”

AfterBURN Sunburn Rescue Gel is a new dermatological gel with a unique osmotic action, which helps draws water from within the skin to its surface, thus helping to rehydrate and treat the sun damaged area. Clinical trials highlight its efficacy in aiding the skin’s healing process, reducing redness, easing discomfort and helping reduce the chances of premature skin aging. Available from Boots, pharmacies and leading retailers nationwide, AfterBURN Sunburn Rescue Gel is priced at £9.99 for 75g. For further info and expert advice on protecting your skin, visit www.afterburngel.co.uk.

* AfterBURN consumer survey of 4,000 British adults, conducted by 72 Point.


Issued by: Pegasus Public Relations
On behalf of: Thornton and Ross/AfterBURN Sunburn Rescue Gel
Press enquiries: David Greenwood (01903) 821 550
Notes to editors: Expert interviews, product samples and further survey statistics available on request.

August 2008