As the August Bank Holiday approaches, festival season is in full swing with some of the world’s biggest acts taking to the stage all over the country. While you can never depend on an Irish summer, one thing is for certain: NIVEA Sun-cream is always an absolute essential. Whether you’re dancing in the rain at Electric Picnic, or soaking up the sunshine at All Together Now, our skin needs protection against UVA and UBA rays, even on the cloudiest of days.
NIVEA Sun is here to guide you with top tips for the best way to look after our skin, and children’s skin, during the busy festival period.
Understand the Risk
It is important to remember that sun damage builds up over time. Even a single severe sunburn, especially in childhood, can significantly increase the risk of melanoma (a serious form of skin cancer) later in life.
Sun-Cream is your First Defence
Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen at least SPF 30 or higher. Broad-spectrum formulas protect against both UVA rays (which contribute to ageing and wrinkles) and UVB rays (the main cause of sunburn and skin cancer). Always reapply generously every two hours, especially after being in the water or sweating. Try NIVEA SUN Protect & Moisture To Go Sun Lotion SPF 30 50ml, RRP €8.50, NIVEA SUN Lip Balm SPF 30, RRP €5.99 and NIVEA SUN Kids Protect & Care Lotion SPF 50+ 200ml, RRP €10.50 for its water resistance and gentle formula.
Cover Up with Protective Clothing
While sunscreen is vital, clothing provides the first line of defence. Loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and trousers made from tightly woven fabrics offer great protection, allowing air to circulate while blocking harmful rays. For the best coverage, look for clothes with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 50+, indicating they block 98% of UV rays.
Showcase your Style with Hats and Sunglasses
A wide-brimmed hat is essential for sun protection, shielding the face, ears, and the often overlooked back of the neck. Don’t forget sunglasses! Opt for styles that offer 100% UVA and UVB protection.
Don’t Let Clouds Deceive You
Even on those classic Irish days with overcast skies, up to 80% of the sun’s harmful UV rays can still reach your skin. Make sun protection a daily habit, regardless of whether you see blue skies or not.
Know Your UV Index
Checking the daily UV index is a smart way to gauge the sun’s intensity. You can find it in weather forecasts websites. Remember, if the index is above 3, sun protection is essential.
Stronger Sun Than You Think
Summer in Ireland can be tricky. Even if the temperature feels cool, the sun’s rays can still be surprisingly strong. Don’t be caught off guard – be prepared with sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing even on seemingly mild days.
Changeable Weather
Ireland’s weather can shift quickly. Pack a small tube of sunscreen, NIVEA Sun Protect and Moisture Travel Size SPF 50, RRP €8.99 and a hat in your bag for unexpected sunny spells when out and about.
Hydration is Key
Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated is not only good for general health but also helps keep skin healthy and less prone to burning.
Babies under 6 months: Their skin is incredibly delicate. The best protection is to keep them out of direct sunlight as much as possible, especially during peak hours (11 am – 3 pm). Prioritise shade from umbrellas and strollers with canopies, and always dress them in protective clothing like lightweight long sleeves, trousers, and wide-brimmed hats. If small areas of skin need sunscreen, stick to fragrance-free, hypoallergenic formulas specifically designed for babies.
Toddlers and Older Children: In addition to sunscreen, clothing, and hats, start teaching them about seeking shade as a natural part of play. Encourage them to take breaks under trees or shade structures. NIVEA SUN Kids Protect & Care Sun Cream Roll-On SPF50+ 50ml Travel Size, RRP €7.00 is a great choice for this age group – the roll-on format is easy to apply independently and makes reapplication less of a hassle, even for active kids.
And while festival season is in full bloom, don’t forget to throw in a pack of NIVEA Biodegradable Cleansing Wipes Normal Skin 25pc, RRP €4.99, always handy when you’re on the go.
NIVEA Sun:
Let NIVEA SUN, Ireland’s No.1 sun care brand* look after you and your family with top products for essential sun protection. These products include:
- NIVEA SUN Protect & Moisture Sun Lotion SPF 50+, 200ml, RRP €10.50
- NIVEA SUN Protect & Care Kids Trigger Spray SPF 50+ 270ml, RRP: €16.00
- NIVEA SUN Kids Protect & Care Sun Cream Roll-On SPF50+ 50ml Travel Size, RRP: €11.00
- NIVEA SUN Lip Balm SPF 30, RRP: €5.99
- NIVEA SUN Protect & Moisture To Go Sun Lotion SPF 30 50ml, RRP: €8.50.