Last updated on January 27th, 2023 at 08:45 pm
Although there’s something to love about every season of the year, summer has always been my favorite. Having grown up where the winters are long and very cold, I always looked forward to the sunshine and warmth of summer. And, now that I live not too far from the beach, I love summer even more.
Spending time outside in the sunshine is good for your body (vitamind D, of course) and good for your mood, but it’s important to remember to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
Whether you’re spending a day at the beach or just enjoying a picnic in your backyard, we have some simple tips for how to stay safe in the sun.
How to Stay Safe in the Sun
1. Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing that covers as much skin as possible
When out in the sun, it’s essential to wear clothing designed to protect you from UV radiation exposure. Opt for clothing made from lightweight, breathable fabric that fits loosely and covers most of your skin to get maximum protection.
Natural fabrics, like cotton, block UVA and UVB rays more effectively than synthetic materials. You can also look for treated clothing, like those labeled “UPF 50+.” If you’ll be swimming or on the beach where the sun’s rays feel extra harsh, a women’s or mens rash vest for added sun protection is a great choice, since sunscreen can wear off or be washed off by the water.
2. Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30
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Most of us love to be in the sun, but it can wreak serious havoc on your skin if you’re not careful. Prolonged sun exposure can cause painful sunburns, premature aging, and even skin cancer. To protect yourself, wearing sunscreen whenever you’re outdoors is a must.
An SPF 30 sunscreen or higher will give you the protection you need when spending time in the sun. Make sure to reapply every two hours, or more if you’re sweating or swimming. Don’t let that slip your mind. Reapplication is vital, so be sure to carry a small bottle of sunscreen with you at all times.
Wearing sunscreen doesn’t have to take away from your beach day fun. It ensures you won’t wind up with a painful sunburn, or worse, after a day in the sun!
3. Limit sun exposure during the peak hours of 10 am to 4 pm
During summer, the sun can be intense at midday and can cause more damage than at other times.
To reduce your exposure to the sun’s harshest rays, stay in the shade or indoors between 10 am and 4 pm. This is the time the sun’s rays are at peak levels.
If you do go outside, wear proper sun protection, and try to stay in the shade. Sun hats, protective clothing, and sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more will allow you to enjoy outdoor activities while minimizing potential health risks.
4. Seek shade when possible
Seeking shade to protect your skin is an important, yet often overlooked, way to stay safe from the summer sun.
Heat-related illnesses and sunburns are serious problems, especially for those who spend extended periods outdoors in direct sunlight.
By taking a few extra precautions and ensuring you’re never too far away from some much-needed relief from the heat, you can enjoy outdoor activities more safely. Whether you’re visiting your local park or spending time at the lake, take a moment to ensure there’s a shady area nearby.
5. Protect your eyes
Sunglasses provide an easy and stylish way to keep your eyes safe from the sun’s harmful rays.
Protecting your eyes by wearing sunglasses that block both UVA and UVB rays is vital, as prolonged exposure to either can cause severe damage, such as cataracts, macular degeneration, or even cancer.
And remember, you should wear sunglasses on cloudy days too. UVA radiation can penetrate clouds and fog, so investing in a quality pair of sunglasses with 100% UV protection will ensure your eyes stay safe and healthy for years to come.
6. Don’t forget about your lips
When you think about how to stay safe in the sun, sunscreen comes to mind–and that’s a good start. But don’t forget about your lips. Applying a lip balm with SPF is one way to ensure they aren’t exposed to the sun’s rays throughout the day.
The winter months can also be drying on your lips, so why not double up on protection and hydration with a lip balm? Not only will this help prevent cracked lips, but it will also form a shield against any harmful UV rays that may come your way.
7. Hydration is a must
Whenever you spend time outdoors, it’s essential to stay hydrated. In the heat and humidity of summer, water is a definite must.
A good rule of thumb is to drink at least one glass of water before you head out, and bring a water bottle. This will help ensure that you stay hydrated while enjoying your outdoor adventures.
Dehydration can cause serious side effects such as headaches, weakness, and dizziness. Taking the time to hydrate properly is a small step that goes a long way in keeping you safe this summer.
8. Take supplements
Sometimes, the best way to protect your skin from the sun is from the inside out–with supplements.
Many people may not be aware that they can take antioxidants, like vitamins C and E, carotenoids, selenium, and other compounds to help protect their skin against the damage caused by UV rays.
Taking these supplements daily can provide an extra layer of protection for your skin outdoors and even reduce sunburn risk. However, before starting a new supplement regime, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure these supplements are right for you. Especially if you are taking prescribed medication, you should always check with your doctor before adding any new supplements to your routine.
Spending time outdoors in the summer can be enjoyable and terrific for your health. With a little preparation and a few precautions, you can enjoy your favorite outdoor activities and minimize the risk of sun damage.
Remember–even if it’s cloudy, and even in the winter, you can still get burned, so don’t forget to put on sunscreen. And if you do happen to get a sunburn, plenty of treatments are available to help ease the pain and irritation. Here’s to staying safe in the sun this summer!
Also read:
Our 6 Best Tips for Surviving a Beach Day with Kids
Wondering What to Take to the Beach? We Have Your Beach Vacation Packing List!
Choosing the Right Pair of Sunglasses: A Simple Guide
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