Of The Sun And Sunscreen

As you pack for those weekend games, remember to add some sunscreen. The hot weather seems to be back, and although it is not consistent, we can almost expect to have sweltering days. Many games have been played under the scorching sun at the University of Nairobi. The away games at Mombasa, Eldoret, and Kisumu are also some of the places exposing players to the hot sun.
The sun’s ultraviolet rays have been proven to cause premature skin aging, sunburns and increase the risk of skin cancer. Extreme sun exposure is a stress to the body and can therefore cause activation of some diseases and for people with sensitive skin, prone to acne and other skin diseases like eczema, it may worsen the condition. This is why each time you go out to train or play under the sun, please apply some sunscreen to protect your skin.

Sunscreen acts as a barrier of the sun’s harmful rays to your skin cells. It should be applied 15-30 minutes before exposure to the sun and reapplied after two hours or so. The amount to be applied to the face, neck and each arm should be approximately half a tea spoon and double that to the back, each leg and the chest area. Do not use expired products.
So, the next time you are keen on buying a fresh pair of kicks and a matching pair of socks and a head band to go with them, consider throwing in a few coins for some sunscreen. This applies to all genders. Remember, it’s the little drops of water that make the great ocean. Your body and your health are an investment that will breed a successful life.