Protecting skin from sun - June vs. October

[Pelegrin]

A month ago the doctor burnt a small spot on my face ( queratosis actinica) because she said it could be dangerous. Now the place on my face is clean anf my doctor said that I could do a Camino putting a special cream ( 100 +) every 2 hours and wearing a hat ( of course). Nevertheless, I became more frightened about the sun and I am thinking now in postponing my "Ourense- Santiago" from June to October. I would prefer June because I like to speak with other pilgrims. What do you think ?.

 

[Flatlander]

A month ago the doctor burnt a small spot on my face ( queratosis actinica) because she said it could be dangerous. Now the place on my face is clean anf my doctor said that I could do a Camino putting a special cream ( 100 +) every 2 hours and wearing a hat ( of course). Nevertheless, I became more frightened about the sun and I am thinking now in postponing my "Ourense- Santiago" from June to October. I would prefer June because I like to speak with other pilgrims. What do you think ?.

I think I prefer the advice of a doctor to random folk on the Internet.
If worried, research the hours and intensity of sun that can be expected at that time of the year and and return to your doctor. Or find a specialist.

The fact of the matter is that the sun will generally be behind you for your journey to Santiago, no?

 

[SabsP]

A month ago the doctor burnt a small spot on my face ( queratosis actinica) because she said it could be dangerous. Now the place on my face is clean anf my doctor said that I could do a Camino putting a special cream ( 100 +) every 2 hours and wearing a hat ( of course). Nevertheless, I became more frightened about the sun and I am thinking now in postponing my "Ourense- Santiago" from June to October. I would prefer June because I like to speak with other pilgrims. What do you think ?.

I agree with Flatlander. Speak again with your doctor. Did the gp perform it or did you go to a dermatologist? If not , make an appointment with a dermatologist.
I would not take the risk. And certainly not rely on our views.

 

[Pelegrin]

The fact of the matter is that the sun will generally be behind you for your journey to Santiago

Good point ! No, I think that in the first half of Ourense - Santiago the sun is on the right side of my face.

 

[VNwalking]

What do you think ?.

I think listen to what your doc said, and not the anxiety. And if you need reassurance, ask again.

 

[trecile]

You can keep the sun off of of your face with a handsfree umbrella like the one that @ivar sells in the Camino Forum store.

The telescopic and handsfree trekking umbrella

Please note: All umbrellas sold here do have the Silver UV protection. This means that the color of the umbrella is silver on the outside and black on the inside. The handsfree trekking umbrella as compact version can be easily attached on the shoulder straps and hip belt on nearly all kind of...

www.santiagodecompostela.me

 

[Pelegrin]

I agree with Flatlander. Speak again with your doctor. Did the gp perform it or did you go to a dermatologist? If not , make an appointment with a dermatologist.
I would not take the risk. And certainly not rely on our views.

I visited two dermatologists so far. Both said that I could walk 6 hours under the sun putting the special cream every two hours and the hat but I think that June is too soon for me to asimilate all of this.

 

[Former member 92300]

I have had 2 cancerous lesions (not melanoma thankfully) removed and I have places on my face and head frozen periodically. I have since done 2 800+km Caminos and am doing 1200km of the Via Francigena this summer.

Definitely refer to your doctor's guidance - but personally - I don't let it stop me from living the way I want to live. I just do so in a way that still protects my skin.

I wear an SPF of 50 (but if your doc recommends something else - wear what your doc recommends.

I also have SPF protective hats, long sleeve shirts, long pants, and even sun gloves. Feet are protected by shoes/socks. The hat I wear usually has a wide brimmed hat in the front and sides, and removable flap in the back (so it works with a backpack and covers my entire neck). There are even hats that have flaps that protect your face too. BUT - most Camino routes are heading west and we walk in the AM, so the sun is generally behind us or straight overhead while walking. But - all of this clothing - you can actually shop at some outdoor gear shop and they usually will have labels if the clothing is SPF rated. I pick those things when I have the choice - because not all fabrics are equally sun protective.

Anyhow - I can essentially cover up head to toe with SPF protective hats/clothing when I feel the need.

I also own hiking umbrellas that are lightweight, more durable in wind than other umbrellas, and are made with SPF 40 or 50 fabrics - so that is another layer I love to use for my head/face because sometimes it is too hot to wear a hat and it keeps me cooler, yet protected.

And last - I tend to start out around 6-6:30am so that I am at my destination by early afternoon to avoid the worst sun/heat of the day when I can.

Anyhow - yes - talk to your doctor and follow his guidance - but also don't be afraid of the sun. Just learn how to be safer in the sun! And limit exposure in the ways that work for you.

 

[Former member 92300]

I visited two dermatologists so far. Both said that I could walk 6 hours under the sun putting the special cream every two hours and the hat but I think that June is too soon for me to asimilate all of this.

Is June too soon because you are still trying to wrap your mind around the risks that you have learned about? Or because you need new gear? If it is new gear you need - well - if you have the funds it should be easy to get the gear. But if it is an emotional preparation you need to do - well - we can't tell you what is too soon in that respect.

 

[Pelegrin]

Is June too soon because you are still trying to wrap your mind around the risks that you have learned about? Or because you need new gear? If it is new gear you need - well - if you have the funds it should be easy to get the gear. But if it is an emotional preparation you need to do - well - we can't tell you what is too soon in that respect.

Yes the problem is my mind. Because I live in Spain and I am retired I could easily change my plans to October. But wouldn't like to be alone in Ourense - Santiago in October.

 

[Former member 92300]

Yes the problem is my mind. Because I live in Spain and I am retired I could easily change my plans to October. But wouldn't like to be alone in Ourense - Santiago in October.

I get it. If you can easily postpone and take the time to deal with the emotional component - then just do it! Walking more "off season" is always good from a dermatology standpoint anyway.

Anyhow - I feel for you! I see my dermatologist every 6 months now and he is always freezing some new worry area. For me, head, face, chest, and hands are the areas I have the most old skin damage - so I work harder to protect those areas. My hairline where I part my hair is a particularly worrisome area - I wear a buff/neck gaiter at all times on my head when walking - if I am ever walking without a hat. I wear it like a very wide headband.

 

[VNwalking]

the problem is my mind.

As a reassurance - I grew up in the tropics and have lost count of how many of these I've had removed. No big deal. Sunscreen and a hat are your friends.

 

[Pelegrin]

I have had 2 cancerous lesions (not melanoma thankfully) removed and I have places on my face and head frozen periodically. I have since done 2 800+km Caminos and am doing 1200km of the Via Francigena this summer.

Definitely refer to your doctor's guidance - but personally - I don't let it stop me from living the way I want to live. I just do so in a way that still protects my skin.

I wear an SPF of 50 (but if your doc recommends something else - wear what your doc recommends.

I also have SPF protective hats, long sleeve shirts, long pants, and even sun gloves. Feet are protected by shoes/socks. The hat I wear usually has a wide brimmed hat in the front and sides, and removable flap in the back (so it works with a backpack and covers my entire neck). There are even hats that have flaps that protect your face too. BUT - most Camino routes are heading west and we walk in the AM, so the sun is generally behind us or straight overhead while walking. But - all of this clothing - you can actually shop at some outdoor gear shop and they usually will have labels if the clothing is SPF rated. I pick those things when I have the choice - because not all fabrics are equally sun protective.

Anyhow - I can essentially cover up head to toe with SPF protective hats/clothing when I feel the need.

I also own hiking umbrellas that are lightweight, more durable in wind than other umbrellas, and are made with SPF 40 or 50 fabrics - so that is another layer I love to use for my head/face because sometimes it is too hot to wear a hat and it keeps me cooler, yet protected.

And last - I tend to start out around 6-6:30am so that I am at my destination by early afternoon to avoid the worst sun/heat of the day when I can.

Anyhow - yes - talk to your doctor and follow his guidance - but also don't be afraid of the sun. Just learn how to be safer in the sun! And limit exposure in the ways that work for you.

Thank you for your great information. Almost all my hobbies have to do with walking (and a bit running) outside despite I'm 68, so If I continue, this information will be very useful.

 

[Sacha]

A month ago the doctor burnt a small spot on my face ( queratosis actinica) because she said it could be dangerous. Now the place on my face is clean anf my doctor said that I could do a Camino putting a special cream ( 100 +) every 2 hours and wearing a hat ( of course). Nevertheless, I became more frightened about the sun and I am thinking now in postponing my "Ourense- Santiago" from June to October. I would prefer June because I like to speak with other pilgrims. What do you think ?.

Speak to doctor. They might be able to offer you a UV blocking scar patch to be on the safe side. Or very thick UV cream, like those that are solid white on the skin.

 

[Flatlander]

You're living in Spain so your dermatologists know the conditions first hand and

Almost all my hobbies have to do with walking (and a bit running) outside

Then

But if it is an emotional preparation you need to do - well - we can't tell you what is too soon in that respect.

By all means search out the inspiration that will help you prepare emotionally, but at the end of the day only you can decide if you will be comfortable or not.

It may not be a bad idea to seek out a little psychological comfort given how much you enjoy the outdoors.

 

[David Tallan]

A month ago the doctor burnt a small spot on my face ( queratosis actinica) because she said it could be dangerous. Now the place on my face is clean anf my doctor said that I could do a Camino putting a special cream ( 100 +) every 2 hours and wearing a hat ( of course). Nevertheless, I became more frightened about the sun and I am thinking now in postponing my "Ourense- Santiago" from June to October. I would prefer June because I like to speak with other pilgrims. What do you think ?.

I echo what others have said about listening to your doctor, but it doesn't seem that your doctor has weighed in on June vs. October. Rather, this is something you are considering yourself to be extra cautious.

So I would say:
- If you do decide to change your Camino to October, don't let the potentially less sun lure you into being lax about following your doctor's instructions (e.g. re-applying the cream every 2 hours).
- October isn't exactly low season. If you do decide to switch to October, you will likely still find pilgrims to talk to.

 

[Nancy R.]

I have had 2 cancerous lesions (not melanoma thankfully) removed and I have places on my face and head frozen periodically. I have since done 2 800+km Caminos and am doing 1200km of the Via Francigena this summer.

Definitely refer to your doctor's guidance - but personally - I don't let it stop me from living the way I want to live. I just do so in a way that still protects my skin.

I wear an SPF of 50 (but if your doc recommends something else - wear what your doc recommends.

I also have SPF protective hats, long sleeve shirts, long pants, and even sun gloves. Feet are protected by shoes/socks. The hat I wear usually has a wide brimmed hat in the front and sides, and removable flap in the back (so it works with a backpack and covers my entire neck). There are even hats that have flaps that protect your face too. BUT - most Camino routes are heading west and we walk in the AM, so the sun is generally behind us or straight overhead while walking. But - all of this clothing - you can actually shop at some outdoor gear shop and they usually will have labels if the clothing is SPF rated. I pick those things when I have the choice - because not all fabrics are equally sun protective.

Anyhow - I can essentially cover up head to toe with SPF protective hats/clothing when I feel the need.

I also own hiking umbrellas that are lightweight, more durable in wind than other umbrellas, and are made with SPF 40 or 50 fabrics - so that is another layer I love to use for my head/face because sometimes it is too hot to wear a hat and it keeps me cooler, yet protected.

And last - I tend to start out around 6-6:30am so that I am at my destination by early afternoon to avoid the worst sun/heat of the day when I can.

Anyhow - yes - talk to your doctor and follow his guidance - but also don't be afraid of the sun. Just learn how to be safer in the sun! And limit exposure in the ways that work for you.

I completely agree with this. I've had 4 Mohs surgeries for squamous and basal cell cancers plus numerous little things "burned" off over the years. Most recently, I have had 2 of the 4 surgeries and started to worry too, but my dermatologist told me DO NOT give up hiking. It's healthy and you love doing it! I have only had these issues on my face and I realize in part because I forget to reapply the sunscreen - and with my fair skin it is risky. The rest of me, as Jeanine says above, is covered even with fingerless gloves. I live in Florida and despite the sun and heat, if you buy the right UV and moisture-wicking clothes, you won't mind being covered up. I am doing my first camino solo starting in STPDP August 27th Buen Camino!!

 

[lt56ny]

Do not listen to us as others have also said, listen to your medical professional and then take all the precautions you can, This is my recommendation:
Here is a story rating the top hats for sun protection.

The 6 Best Sun Hats of 2024

After testing over 50 of the best sun hats over the last 9 years, we recently bought the 20 most promising for hands-on testing. Our experts then took them...

www.outdoorgearlab.com

I have been using the Outdoor Research Sun Runner cap for every camino. The cape is removable but I also just had a skin cancer scare which thankfully was negative but I will be wearing this cap with the flap from now on. It says it is rated a 7 for comfort and durability but I would rate it higher. It may not be the most fashionable cap but I can tell you when I walked the VDLP in mid October and the sun was pounding down at 90+F without a cloud in the sky I was able to tighten the cape over my face and virtually everything was protected except my eyes. Really easy to wash and if it is hot you can soak it in cold water and put it back on and it cools you down. Good luck
One other note I walked in a very light pair of pants (never shorts) and UV protective long sleeve shirts and I did not feel any hotter than if I walked in a short sleeve shirt and short pants. Glad i did. There was no shade early on the Via De La Plata and like I said the sun was pounding. I was carrying 3 liters of water and drank them and more every day.

 

[Pelegrin]

Do not listen to us as others have also said, listen to your medical professional and then take all the precautions you can, This is my recommendation:
Here is a story rating the top hats for sun protection.

The 6 Best Sun Hats of 2024

After testing over 50 of the best sun hats over the last 9 years, we recently bought the 20 most promising for hands-on testing. Our experts then took them...

www.outdoorgearlab.com

I have been using the Outdoor Research Sun Runner cap for every camino. The cape is removable but I also just had a skin cancer scare which thankfully was negative but I will be wearing this cap with the flap from now on. It says it is rated a 7 for comfort and durability but I would rate it higher. It may not be the most fashionable cap but I can tell you when I walked the VDLP in mid October and the sun was pounding down at 90+F without a cloud in the sky I was able to tighten the cape over my face and virtually everything was protected except my eyes. Really easy to wash and if it is hot you can soak it in cold water and put it back on and it cools you down. Good luck
One other note I walked in a very light pair of pants (never shorts) and UV protective long sleeve shirts and I did not feel any hotter than if I walked in a short sleeve shirt and short pants. Glad i did. There was no shade early on the Via De La Plata and like I said the sun was pounding. I was carrying 3 liters of water and drank tdathemithank more every day.

Thank you
I have two hats like those. Now I always use one of them ( the one made by my daughter) when I walk Madrid city. It seems that we are already in summer in Madrid.

 

[verber]

As others said... do research via internet looking at real science not random people's opinions (cochrane, pubmed, semantic scholar, etc) and then have another talk with your dermatologist. My experience is that personal research is often essential - and always valuable, a lot of doctors are not good a rethinking (for example it took decades for some doctors to use antibiotics for ulcers).

As others have mentioned use UPF 50+ clothing. Besides the traditional wide brim, I would consider KAVU Chillba, or a hat that has a veil like OR SunRunner or many of the hats from Sunday Afternoons. You could consider supplementing this with something like a a uv buff (they make a few models commemorating the camino), or a balaclava made to protect you from the sun. The nice thing about these options is they don't wash / sweat off so no need for reapplication.

You could also take a hit from the lifestyle of many people near the equator. Take a siesta when the sun is at its peak. I like the iOS application UV Index to visualize sun insensitive, and there are many others to choose from.

 

[Pelegrin]

As others said... do research via internet looking at real science not random people's opinions (cochrane, pubmed, semantic scholar, etc) and then have another talk with your dermatologist. My experience is that personal research is often essential - and always valuable, a lot of doctors are not good a rethinking (for example it took decades for some doctors to use antibiotics for ulcers).

As others have mentioned use UPF 50+ clothing. Besides the traditional wide brim, I would consider KAVU Chillba, or a hat that has a veil like OR SunRunner or many of the hats from Sunday Afternoons. You could consider supplementing this with something like a a uv buff (they make a few models commemorating the camino), or a balaclava made to protect you from the sun. The nice thing about these options is they don't wash / sweat off so no need for reapplication.

You could also take a hit from the lifestyle of many people near the equator. Take a siesta when the sun is at its peak. I like the iOS application UV Index to visualize sun insensitive, and there are many others to choose from.

Thank you
I protected myself during my life more than the average in Spain (but surely not enough), with hat and sunscream but I have done a lot of mountain ( sierra de Madrid, Pyrinees, Picos de Europa, Alps) and 800 kms of different Caminos.

 

[HeyRobin]

I agree with the others; get medical advice from your doctor.
If you’ve never done a Camino before, let me paint a picture for you. It’s hot and sunny for most of Spain at that time of year. The coastal regions will be cloudier. You can look up what time the sun rises on the internet as well as UV index and duration of sunlight. Pilgrims often walk early, before the sun rises to avoid the sun. They also wear wide-brimmed hats, long sleeved shirts, neck scarves or buffs, sunglasses and pants. I use an umbrella at times.
I too am concerned about my skin as well as my general health so I take these precautions and walk. Buen camino

 

[Pelegrin]

I agree with the others; get medical advice from your doctor.
If you’ve never done a Camino before, let me paint a picture for you. It’s hot and sunny for most of Spain at that time of year. The coastal regions will be cloudier. You can look up what time the sun rises on the internet as well as UV index and duration of sunlight. Pilgrims often walk early, before the sun rises to avoid the sun. They also wear wide-brimmed hats, long sleeved shirts, neck scarves or buffs, sunglasses and pants. I use an umbrella at times.
I too am concerned about my skin as well as my general health so I take these precautions and walk. Buen camino

No problem in knowledge about the land (I'm from Galicia). I am taking notes about the ware from different posts. Thank you.

 

[verber]

Thank you
I protected myself during my life more than the average in Spain (but surely not enough), with hat and sunscream but I have done a lot of mountain ( sierra de Madrid, Pyrinees, Picos de Europa, Alps) and 800 kms of different Caminos.

For me it's been life in the USA, mostly Northern California with a lot of mountains (the Sierras). Like you I have been fairly careful after badly burning myself in my pre-teen years. Clothing, full coverage hat, SPF 50+ anything exposed. In recent years long pant and shirt that are UPF 50+, even in the hottest conditions after I discovered not all clothing was sufficiently protective for me: burned my shoulders while wearing a popular Sun Hoodie which is only UPF 15-20. Inspire of my care, I had patches of basal cells in the middle of my back. The last time I wasn't wearing a shirt outdoors was in my pre-teens and my longest days in the sun typically have a backpack covering my back. I even wear a long sleeve shirt swimming. Each of us responds to the sun differently, and it seems like exposure in the ancient past can show up decades later.

 

[Rita Flower]

Yes the problem is my mind. Because I live in Spain and I am retired I could easily change my plans to October. But wouldn't like to be alone in Ourense - Santiago in October.

I walked Ourense to Santiago in November last year. It was wonderful and there were other pilgrims around. But most of them had started in Sevilla in early October. I think this leg of the Sanabres will/is becoming more popular so I imagine you won’t be alone In October but it won’t be busy.

 

[Mobilemejen]

A month ago the doctor burnt a small spot on my face ( queratosis actinica) because she said it could be dangerous. Now the place on my face is clean anf my doctor said that I could do a Camino putting a special cream ( 100 +) every 2 hours and wearing a hat ( of course). Nevertheless, I became more frightened about the sun and I am thinking now in postponing my "Ourense- Santiago" from June to October. I would prefer June because I like to speak with other pilgrims. What do you think ?.

I have skin cancer on every leaf of my family tree so I am super careful with sun. I have used (attaches handsfree to my backpack at the waist strap and then on either of the two shoulder strips---depending on where the sun is) the Euroshrim UV silver telescoping umbrella. There are pretenders out there but I would hold out for this one if you can order it. It is simple and easy and I have found it to be very effective over 6 Caminos. It also protects from wind and rain.

 

[Bartman]

Remember to protect your hands esp if using trekking poles. The worst burn I EVER got was on the fleshy part btw the thumb & forefinger while walking C. Frances. I'll spare you the details.

Also remember the sun moves during the day as will your exposure.

Be safe out there.
Bartman

 

[PJN]

I have had 2 cancerous lesions (not melanoma thankfully) removed and I have places on my face and head frozen periodically. I have since done 2 800+km Caminos and am doing 1200km of the Via Francigena this summer.

Definitely refer to your doctor's guidance - but personally - I don't let it stop me from living the way I want to live. I just do so in a way that still protects my skin.

I wear an SPF of 50 (but if your doc recommends something else - wear what your doc recommends.

I also have SPF protective hats, long sleeve shirts, long pants, and even sun gloves. Feet are protected by shoes/socks. The hat I wear usually has a wide brimmed hat in the front and sides, and removable flap in the back (so it works with a backpack and covers my entire neck). There are even hats that have flaps that protect your face too. BUT - most Camino routes are heading west and we walk in the AM, so the sun is generally behind us or straight overhead while walking. But - all of this clothing - you can actually shop at some outdoor gear shop and they usually will have labels if the clothing is SPF rated. I pick those things when I have the choice - because not all fabrics are equally sun protective.

Anyhow - I can essentially cover up head to toe with SPF protective hats/clothing when I feel the need.

I also own hiking umbrellas that are lightweight, more durable in wind than other umbrellas, and are made with SPF 40 or 50 fabrics - so that is another layer I love to use for my head/face because sometimes it is too hot to wear a hat and it keeps me cooler, yet protected.

And last - I tend to start out around 6-6:30am so that I am at my destination by early afternoon to avoid the worst sun/heat of the day when I can.

Anyhow - yes - talk to your doctor and follow his guidance - but also don't be afraid of the sun. Just learn how to be safer in the sun! And limit exposure in the ways that work for you.

Precisely
We also always start walking at 6 am and arrive at our chosen destination early afternoon You are always walking west, so the sun is behind you. Use the Dr special cream, and wear a hat with a good brim x

 

[Pelegrin]

Precisely
We also always start walking at 6 am and arrive at our chosen destination early afternoon You are always walking west, so the sun is behind you. Use the Dr special cream, and wear a hat with a good brim x

Yes, and long sleeves, long pants and a neckerchief.

 

[Pelegrin]

I have skin cancer on every leaf of my family tree so I am super careful with sun. I have used (attaches handsfree to my backpack at the waist strap and then on either of the two shoulder strips---depending on where the sun is) the Euroshrim UV silver telescoping umbrella. There are pretenders out there but I would hold out for this one if you can order it. It is simple and easy and I have found it to be very effective over 6 Caminos. It also protects from wind and rain.

Fortunately, I don' t have this family problem. My parents burnt many times in the beaches of Benidorm and didn't have skin cancer.

 

[curlylottie]

Nothing to add to this thread, other than check out this cool hat I just bought: https://sundayafternoons.com/collec...products/sun-guide-cap?variant=37935898099902

The best hat for keeping sun off your face and neck! I saw two other people wearing it while out on a hike and asked about it. Just received mine and wanted to add it to this thread…
Buen Camino!

 

[ken2116]

A month ago the doctor burnt a small spot on my face ( queratosis actinica) because she said it could be dangerous. Now the place on my face is clean anf my doctor said that I could do a Camino putting a special cream ( 100 +) every 2 hours and wearing a hat ( of course). Nevertheless, I became more frightened about the sun and I am thinking now in postponing my "Ourense- Santiago" from June to October. I would prefer June because I like to speak with other pilgrims. What do you think ?.

Skin that is healing is more susceptible to sun damage and so deserves extra protection. It seems the most absolute protection would be to cover the affected area with an opaque bandage, if its location permits. Shading from some combination of hat, sun umbrella, and a quality sunscreen (regularly reapplied) also is effective.

There are two fundamental types of sunscreens, those that use chemicals to block UV and those that use physical blockers as zinc oxide and titanium oxide particles. Both work, but you don't want them to be on your skin at the same time because the components of the physical blockers catalyze the breakdown of the chemical type.

 

[Pelegrin]

There are two fundamental types of sunscreens, those that use chemicals to block UV and those that use physical blockers as zinc oxide and titanium oxide particles. Both work, but you don't want them to be on your skin at the same time because the components of the physical blockers catalyze the breakdown of the chemical type.

Mine is Eryfotona AK-NMSC (ISDIN)

 

[ken2116]

Mine is Eryfotona AK-NMSC (ISDIN)

Here a link to the AK version: https://www.isdin.com/en/product/eryfotona/ak-nmsc-spf-100-fluid-eng
Its ingredients don't list silicone dioxide or titanium dioxide (verify for yourself), which is what the mineral type of sunscreens use, so it's most likely the chemical type. That can be okay, though in the US some chemical types contain ingredients banned in Europe due to safety concerns (do you prefer to get your cancer from the sun or from your sunscreen...?)

A quick search shows Eryfotona also makes the mineral type of sunscreen (the term is on the label and SiO2 is listed as in ingredient), you wouldn't want to layer the two types together though it would be okay to apply one or the other on separate days. Also, because the mineral type physically block the sun's rays it will be affective as long as it remains on your skin, but the mineral type degrades the function of the chemical type.

 

[Goyo]

Whatever you do, wherever you go, don’t forget to apply whatever you use to your ears… frontside…backside…inside…outside, every side…

 

[Thornley]

A month ago the doctor burnt a small spot on my face ( queratosis actinica) because she said it could be dangerous. Now the place on my face is clean anf my doctor said that I could do a Camino putting a special cream ( 100 +) every 2 hours and wearing a hat ( of course). Nevertheless, I became more frightened about the sun and I am thinking now in postponing my "Ourense- Santiago" from June to October. I would prefer June because I like to speak with other pilgrims. What do you think ?.

Start early , stop at lunch time
Avoid the bad hours , 1-3 at all costs .
Hat on and enjoy.

 

[Pelegrin]

A quick search shows Eryfotona also makes the mineral type of sunscreen (the term is on the label and SiO2 is listed as in ingredient), you wouldn't want to layer the two types together though it would be okay to apply one or the other on separate days. Also, because the mineral type physically block the sun's rays it will be affective as long as it remains on your skin, but the mineral type degrades the function of the chemical type.

Eryfotona is for Queratosis Actinica. It seems that the sun effects accumulate on the skin for that problem. I'm soon 69 and I did a lot of mountain. So much less mountain ( and caminos) for me from now in spring/summer.

 

[BobAllo]

Your doctor's advice on the Camino and the special cream sounds solid. It's better to prioritize your health, especially after a procedure like that.Considering the potential risks associated with sun exposure post-treatment, October may be a more cautious choice. You'll still get that incredible journey, and the weather in October can be pretty pleasant, too. Plus, your skin will thank you for the extra care. Speaking of skin, I'm about to try Pico laser for acne scars. I've been dealing with them for a while now, and laser seems to be the best decision. Has anybody here had this procedure? If you have any tips, please share them with me!Take care!

 

[PJN]

Yes the problem is my mind. Because I live in Spain and I am retired I could easily change my plans to October. But wouldn't like to be alone in Ourense - Santiago in October.

There will still be plenty of pilgrims walking in October. Have a great Camino x

 

[Pelegrin]

There will still be plenty of pilgrims walking in October. Have a great Camino x

Thank you, but this thread is of last year. Now I am not so concern about this issue. I put sunscreen everyday but I walk on Sierra de Madrid every week. In October 2023 I only did two stages of Camino Frances. This year I don' t yet what I am going to do.