Fun in The Sun (with protection)

A Glorious Sunrise over Hauser Lake

Summer is the time for outside fun and frolics and when being outside you need to keep yourself safe from the sun. Here are the ways that helps protect you from the sun and enjoy the beautiful outdoors. It only takes 15-20 minutes in the sun to damage your skin. Before you head outside to enjoy the warm weather and sunshine, here’s what you need to know to about sun safety and protecting your skin.

1 Sunscreen is a must. No one wants to deal with sunburn. Nobody!!  Sunscreens are assigned a sun protection factor (SPF) number that rates their effectiveness in blocking ultraviolet (UV) rays. Higher numbers indicate more protection. You should use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 15, even on cool or slightly cloudy days and higher SPF on warmer days.  Put a thick layer of sunscreen on all parts of your exposed skin. Get help for hard-to-reach places like your back. Sunscreen wears off so apply every 2 hrs and more often after swimming, sweating or toweling off after being in the water. Make sure if you wear makeup or lip balm that they have at least SPF 15 or greater or apply sunscreen as well. Check expiration dates as sunscreen does loose its effectiveness after the expiration date. Also check to see if it has any toxic ingredients. The skin is the largest organ in the body and avoid the absorption of these toxic ingredients. 

2 Avoid being in the sun at the peak sun times. Usually between 10AM and 4PM. Also check your weather app to see what the UV Index is and follow that.

3 Shade is your friend and try finding some either under an umbrella, a tree or other shelters. Still have the sunscreen on with protective clothing. That brings me to #4

4 Protective clothes for being in the sun. Lately I have being wearing long sleeves and a hat. (Maybe not the most glamorous attire but avoids the risk or sunburn and the “Farmer’s Tan:)) Long sleeves, long pants of light tightly woven material works well and color is also important. Darker colors provide more UV protection as well as dry vs wet clothes. Some clothes now come with an UV rating and are light weight. My favorite. Wear a hat with a brim all the way around that shades your face, ears and the back of your neck for the most protection. 

5 Sunglasses protect your eyes from UV rays and reduce the risk of cataracts and of course wrinkles (less squinting). They also protect the delicate skin around your eyes and wrap round glasses provide the most coverage and protection.

To get adequate Vitamin D we do need sun exposure a few times a week but remember less is more when it comes to sun exposure. Have a wonderful and safe summer enjoying all activities outdoors, swimming, boating, walking, hiking, beach time etc because it does not last forever.