Sunshine and summertime is heading our way. With the weather temperatures rising and sunshine beaming down it’s easy to overlook the damaging effects too much sun can have on our health. You should worry about your sun exposure all year long, not just in the summer months. Be proactive in your sun protection as the weather warms up and you and your family start spending more time outdoors. Overlooking the importance of protecting healthy skin can have devastating and lasting effects on not only one’s appearance, but also overall health. Treat your skin with the care it deserves and stay safe from burns, blisters, and over-exposure with these five simple tips for sun safety.
- A shot a day! Always apply 1 oz of sunscreen when heading outside for extended periods of time. Use “broad-spectrum” lotion with a sun protection factor or SPF of 30 or greater.
- Apply & Repeat. Be sure to apply sun screen at least 15 minutes prior to heading out in the sun and remember to reapply every 2 hours. Consider your activities while in the sun. If you are enjoying some time in the water or dripping from sweat after a hot summer run reapply more frequently.
- Protect your Eyes. Sun glasses are to eyes as sun block is to skin. Don’t just lather up with lotion and be done with it. Investing in a pair of UV protection sun glasses is vital to your eye health. Plus, it’s the best way to guarantee optimal vision while playing, riding, running, or relaxing in the sun.
- Get Dressed to go out in the Sun. So what if its 70 degrees outside, you still need to put some clothes on. Wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats when expecting to spend a day in the sun. Unlike sunscreen that wears off in a couple hours, fabric doesn’t just evaporate in the sun. Dress accordingly to protect your skin!
- Seek Shade. Sitting under the shade of a tree or umbrella helps to significantly decrease direct sun exposure. Although this is one alternative, it is not the only precautionary technique for limiting UV exposure.
For optimal safety when out in the sun it is best to follow all five tips. These simple proactive steps could determine how pleasant or miserable your future outdoor adventures are. Keep that in mind the next time you step outside without adequate skin protection.
