Let the sun shine! Here’s how to protect your skin this summer

For many of us, summer means lazing on the beach or around the pool and getting out and about  

in the great outdoors. But while some sun exposure is vital to stay healthy, overexposure can cause sunburn, skin damage, heatstroke and even death. Skin cancer is one of the most common cancers in the world and it’s vital we take precautions to minimise damage. So how do you get the ­balance right? 

Getting out in the sun has health benefits. Sunlight helps our bodies produce vitamin D, which keeps our bones healthy as it aids the absorption of calcium, explains British skincare expert Hermione Lawson. Low vitamin D levels have also been linked to multiple sclerosis and even forms of cancer.