Pharmacists give advice on photoprotection and the use of medicinal plants in the “Summer Care” campaign

The General Council of Colleges of Pharmacy has launched its Summer Care 2024 health campaign for another year, aiming to offer advice on photoprotection of both skin and eyes, including oral photoprotection and the importance of maintaining good health, as well as advice on the use of some medicinal plants at this time of year.

So, through the National Committees on Food, Dermopharmaceuticals, Pharmaceuticals, Ophthalmic Optics and Audiometric Acoustics, they have prepared five informative infographics that highlight the various considerations to keep in mind and debunk the widespread mystifications on these issues.

In terms of sun protection for the eyes, they stressed the importance of using approved sunglasses with the CE mark and numbers 0 to 4 on the temples; the higher the number, the greater the percentage of light blocked. They should also have filters that block ultraviolet (UV) radiation, fit snugly against the face, and provide protection at both the front and sides. They also noted that glasses should be worn by children, whose eyes are six times more sensitive to UV, and not be left behind on cloudy days.

Regarding the importance of sun protection, they emphasized that using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) helps prevent sunburn, photoaging, skin cancer, sun allergies, or changes in the immune system. For the same purpose, they recommended wearing clothing specifically designed to protect against sun radiation, which is certified with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) and is increasingly present in swimsuits or sportswear, as well as wearing hats or caps. Also avoid sunbathing between 12 and 4 p.m. and prolonged sun exposure.

As an additional measure, they dedicated an infographic to oral photoprotection, i.e., consuming certain foods or supplements and proper hydration to prepare and protect the skin. In this regard, nutrients such as carotenoids, vitamin E, vitamin C, polyphenols, omega-3 fatty acids, and minerals such as zinc, selenium, and copper are essential. To do this, they recommended including fruits, vegetables, and nuts in the diet.

Phytotherapy, or the use of medicinal plants for medicinal purposes, can help supplement photoprotection and skin hydration, as well as restore the body’s electrolyte balance. Before sunbathing, they recommend using Polypodium leucotomos, or deer fern, as a skin protectant. Afterwards, calendula, aloe vera, chamomile, lavender or coconut oil have refreshing, soothing and protective properties. For their part, nettle leaves, marshmallow root, licorice root or raspberry leaf are useful as a remedy against dehydration, they said.