People often say that they feel happier when it’s sunny. The ‘feel good factor’ is
often influenced by the weather and whether the sun is shining. Psychologists
have recognised a condition called SAD (seasonal affective disorder), which
makes sufferers feel fed up and down when they haven’t experienced enough
natural sunlight. However, there can also be dangers associated with the sun.
In the past, for example in Elizabethan and Victorian times, it was fashionable to
have a pale skin. Since the 1950s when foreign travel became more accessible,
it became fashionable to have a tan. Many people today still like to have a tan
and say it makes them feel better. If people are going to spend time in the sun,
then there are safety precautions that should be taken to protect the skin from
damaging UV rays.
The simplest form of protection is to cover up with light, loose clothing - but many
people use sun protection products. These come in lotions, sprays, creams and
gels and should be used regularly if exposed to the sun. Each product will have
a sun protection factor (SPF) which gives a measure of how strongly the product
will protect the skin. The higher the factor, the more protection it gives. Taking care
of your skin is important and should be treated seriously.