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Heat, dehydration and sun overexposure

 published on 04/16/2008
 
 

Sun exposure: better safe than sorry

Every year, sun overexposure causes heat stroke. It also hastens skin ageing and plays a prime role in the emergence of skin cancer, which is increasingly frequent, in ever-younger patient. For this reason, it is important to take the appropriate preventive measures.
four children wearing sunglasses
woman putting suntan lotion on child
  • Use sunscreen with a skin protection factor suited to your type of skin.
  • When exposing yourself to the sun, keep to the hours before 11 AM and after 4 PM, when sunrays are less intense.
  • Wear a hat, cap or scarf to prevent heat stroke and UV-filtering sunglasses.
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Beware of dehydration

woman drinking water
During severe heat, it is vital to drink in large quantities in order to prevent dehydration, which occurs when the body loses more water than it takes in. The elderly and newborns are particularly at risk for dehydration.
How to avoid dehydration?
  • Give young children something to drink on a regular basis, before they ask.
  • Avoid physical exertion during the hottest hours and during the two hours following a meal.
  • Wet your forehead and nape of neck regularly and wear a hat.
  • Drink frequently and in large quantities.
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Glossary
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