Summer is upon us, which means we’ll be spending more hours out in the sun.
The sun offers health benefits such as helping our bodies create Vitamin D; however, too much
sun can also wreak havoc on our bodies. Not only can it cause us to get overheated or possibly
dehydrated, it can also cause skin damage or cancer.
Here are some important ways to keep your skin safe in the sun:
Wear sunscreen:
One of the most important steps you can take to protect your skin is wearing sunscreen. You’ll want to use a sunscreen that says “Broad-spectrum protection” and has an SPF of at least 30 or higher. You’ll also want to wear sunscreen that is water resistant in case you sweat or plan on going in water. Oh! And don’t forget to put sunscreen on those forgotten spots like your ears, eyelids, and the top of your hands and feet.
Wear protective clothing:
If sunscreen isn’t an option, wear long-sleeve tops or pants to keep your skin covered. A hat, particularly a wide-brimmed one, will help protect the skin on your scalp, ears, nose and face. Also, sunglasses can help protect your eye and cheeks.
Avoid the time of day when UV rays are the strongest:
The UV rays from the sun, which can cause skin damage or cancer, are strongest from 10AM to 4PM. If you are outside during this time, it’s important that you put on sunscreen or wear appropriate clothing. UV rays are strongest the closer you live to the equator OR the higher you live in elevation.
Stop suntanning:
We know having a healthy glow is what many of us strive for in the summer, but reality is suntanning is dangerous—indoors OR outdoors. The U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA) notes that tanning “greatly increases your risk of developing skin cancer.” Better safe than sorry.