Cover up and slap on it

With Britain's climate, it's hardly surprising that at the merest flicker of summer sunshine, we thrust our pale bodies towards the sun and scream "Burn me! Burn me!" But as more research on the increased risk of skin cancer caused by sun exposure emerges, it's time to put an end to the British lobster-man. And if health risks don't persuade you, how about the cosmetic ones - sun accounts for at least 90 per cent of premature skin ageing, for instance. Sun exposure experts emphasize that the best protection against ultraviolet light (UV) damage is use of a lotion with a factor of at least 15.

SAFE TANNING

• Try to stay out of the sun between 10am and 2pm, when the sun's rays are at their strongest

• Apply sunscreen to dry skin at least 30 minutes before going in the sun. This allows the sunscreen to be properly absorbed

• Re-apply every two hours at least, as sunscreens will wear off over this time

• Don't be fooled by the clouds - they block out heat but don't stop more potent rays getting through

• Even when you're in the shade you should wear sunscreen. 

• Wear a waterproof sunscreen while swimming, and a higher factor on your face since it could get a double dose of light - both direct and reflected.