Introducing myself

Hi I had a malignant melanoma removed from my upper arm in August 2015 and think i have got a bit obsessive with staying out of the sun! The Consultant who did the op said he would be happy if i covered up from top to toe and applied factor 50 on everything else. so i have bought a lot of uv clothing but it is sooo hot in this heat wave! Any suggestions??

  • Hi

    I have always had to cover up in the sun as I burn so easly. 

    Long sleeved cotton shirts, nice long flowing cheesecloth or cotton skirts for a change from trousers.  If you have summer dresses just put a long sleeved blouse over. Invest in a big brimmed hat especially a panama as these are so cool and its like walking around with your own sun umbrella. If you dont want a hat and have short hair dont forget to put sunblock on your ears (yes I have burnt the tops of my ears)

    I find the most difficult are to cover is my neck and chest so a thin cotton scarf is useful and so easy to take off when you are in the shade or indoors.

    I also always carry a small bottle of factor 50 sunscreen in my bag just to top up.

    River

  • When I lived in India I did what the locals did; wore loose white cotton pyjama-type clothes which was comfortable and reflected the sunlight.  But this is maybe what you are already doing?   So pleased you are being wise even if it is not always comfortable.  A wide-brimmed hat helps too! Annie

  • Thanks for reply. I was told that cotton was too open weaved and i would be better with polyester/polyamide materials (which make me sweat). It seems very confusing! I have upf 40+ shirts, trousers and one long skirt, but i am going on holiday to Egypt with my daughter and family (who will be in skimpy sun dresses etc) and would like to look a bit more glamorous. I have bought a full length swimsuit (think of a nylon wetsuit) so i can go snorkelling, and a swimming costume with arms for the pool. I know i need to keep safe but wish there were better alternatives

  • Hi

    You are better taking the advice from the professionals mine was based on what I have to do not to burn.

    I still put factor 50 on when wearing thin cotton (especially a very open weave) apply before I go out wait for it to dry before dressing as fabric can rub the suncream off.  You dont realise what the sun can do I was burnt once through black leggings (I think it must have been the lycra) and that was in Wales, walking !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    I would still recommend the hat. I have a super wide panama hat and it gives loads of shade and super cool unlike fabric hats.

    have a good holiday River

     

  • Yes i have got a number of hats. My favourite is a Wallaroo that is completely sun safe.