Britons planning an autumn-winter getaway to property in Spain and other sunny countries have been reminded to slap on the sun cream while on holiday.

Nina Goad, spokesperson for the British Association of Dermatologists, has urged travellers not to neglect their skin because of the weather back home.

"The sun in the UK during the colder months of autumn and winter is naturally not as strong as it is at other times of the year," she concedes.

But the same may not be true for people who head to property in Spain and other continental European destinations, where the sun may still be stronger later into the year.

Adopting local customs – such as staying out of direct sunlight when the day reaches its hottest – is one of Ms Goad's suggestions.

Meanwhile, covering up with loose-fitting clothing and a large sun hat could be a way to stay both healthy and fashionable.

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