https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/conditions-we-treat/epidermolysis-bullosa-eb-how-can-i-stay-safe-in-the-sun/
Epidermolysis bullosa (EB)- How can I stay safe in the sun?
This information sheet provides information about sun protection and sunscreen for children and young people with EB.
Why is the sun dangerous?
Spending time outside is a great way to stay active and socialise with friends and family. However, the UV light from the sun can cause damage to everyone’s skin. Even when it’s cloudy in the UK there is still a risk of sun damage.
Young people’s skin is more sensitive than adults’ skin, especially when you have EB. Your skin is much more fragile, and repeated sun damage can increase your risk of skin cancer. The dressings you may wear can act as a barrier but it’s still important to know how to keep safe in the sun.
How can I stay safe in the sun?
Spend time in the shade when the sun is at its strongest. In the UK this is between 11am and 3pm, March to October.
- Never sit directly in the sun.
- Regularly apply a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF). Put sunscreen on any skin that is exposed (but not on any open wounds).
- Cover up with suitable clothing and sunglasses.
- Make sure your sunscreen is not past its expiry date.
- Drink lots of water!
What can I wear to help protect my skin in the sun?
- Your EB dressings provide a barrier and help to protect your skin from direct sunlight.
- A long-sleeved shirt and bottoms are a good extra protective layer. You can turn these inside out if the seams irritate your skin.
- A soft, loose hat is a great way of protecting your face, ears and the back of your neck.
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and the skin around them from UV rays.
A child having fun in the sun
What SPF should I use?
Sunscreens all have an SPF rating, which measures how much they will protect you from the sun. SPFs are rated on a scale of two to 50+, with 50+ being the strongest form of protection.
We recommend everyone with EB always uses a factor 50 sunscreen.
When do I need to apply sunscreen?
Apply suncream to your skin which doesn’t have dressings on, whenever you are going out in the sun. Make sure to remember your face, neck, and ears!
- Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going out in the sun.
- Reapply sunscreen every two hours- the sun can dry it off the skin.
- Apply sunscreen straight after swimming or after sweating a lot, even if its ‘water resistant’.
- Make sure you put enough on- applying evenly and thickly. Often people put on much less sunscreen than they need to.
Does EB mean I shouldn’t go outside in the sun?
No! EB shouldn’t prevent you from going outside and having fun in the sun. It’s just important to be safe and make sure to protect your skin.