Did you know ? If in France, the quality of bathing water is measured and controlled, the same is not true for that of sand. And as the Ministry of Health indicates on its website, “the quality of beaches is certainly not homogeneous in France”. Ok, but concretely, what are we risking? Well, we don't often think about it for lack of information, but in fact sand is home to micro-organisms, fungi, bacteria and viruses that can lead to irritations, skin diseases, fungal infections, even even cystitis. Here are 4 reflexes to adopt to protect yourself (and valid for everyone, especially children!)
Always sit on a towel and avoid being on the sand. If possible, get into the habit of washing the towel regularly, or placing it on a straw mattress.
Children and babies should never be without a bathing suit and/or diaper. We obviously make sure that they do not eat sand (and this, even if we think that they will make their immunity!). When playing with them, we prefer to use tools rather than digging with our hands because the bacteria in the sand could get lodged under our fingernails.
We shower on the way back from the beach, or, if possible, directly on the beach. You can rinse your feet and hands with a bottle of water or a thermal spring spray, or with an antibacterial gel.
Swimsuits are rinsed daily and washed regularly. At the beach, you can bring a second one to avoid staying with a wet swimsuit for too long (the hot and humid environment can promote cystitis…).
There you go, we're ready to enjoy the beach!!
