Our Sun Protection Statement
We are Sun Protection Accredited to the Watch Your Back! Campaign, having pledged to raise awareness of sun protection and skin cancer, protecting the health of our staff and customers.
Skin cancer mainly affects those who spend lots of time outdoors without sun protection, so it makes sense for us all to take the risks seriously. Over the last 30 years, incidence of melanoma has more than doubled in women and tripled in men, so we aim to address this.
The sun can damage your skin between March and October, specifically when the UV Index is 3 and over. Bear in mind that you can burn, even on cloudy days, and the weather can be changeable, so always start the day ‘sun prepared’:
1. Between March-October, ear a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF30+) on exposed skin, sunglasses and a brimmed hat.
2. Apply sunscreen at least 20 minutes before working outdoors to ensure it is properly rubbed in and active.
3. Keep your top on when working, and ideally your shoulders covered.
4. Select shade if possible, to carry out tasks, or for breaks.
5. Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, especially when it’s very warm.
6. Reapply sunscreen every two hours on sunny days or more often when working with water or when sweating. Remember sunscreen can easily be rubbed off when carrying or brushing against items.
7. Always remember to protect lips, nose, ears and back of neck, areas easily missed and prone to sunburn.
8. Check your skin every month. If a mole or lesion starts changing in shape or colour, itches, or bleeds, visit your GP immediately.
For further information on sun protection and skin checking visit the Watch Your Back! Campaign at www.melanoma-fund.co.uk
Sun Protection Tips and Advice
Our tips and advice will encourage healthy sun protection habits,
helping gardeners and horticulturists cut their risk of skin cancer.
If you are gardening or working in an area which receives full sun, put up a makeshift shade, or choose a better spot instead.
Melanoma is the most dangerous form of skin cancer, which after time can reach into the deeper layers of skin, where it is at risk of spreading to other parts of the body.
Greenhouses and polytunnels can protect skin against UVB rays which cause burning, but not UVA which causes premature ageing.
The Scotsdales team want everyone to remain safe and vigilant.
If you're unsure whether you're working safely outside then visit www.melanoma-fund.co.uk for more information and tips.
"We are passionate about plants and 100% committed to sourcing and supplying the healthiest, happiest plants we can."
"We will always prioritise to our local growers first for our stock requirements."
