Temperatures are heating up across the country as we head into the summer months. We’ve all spent most of the last few months staying indoors, and now that we’re starting to venture out of the house, it’s important to remember to keep our skin healthy and safe in the sun.
Keep reading for a handful of helpful tips to be mindful of, through the upcoming warm weather!
Wear Protective Clothing
If possible, wear clothing that will cover your extremities – and throw on a hat! Hats with wide brims not only cover your face, they also protect other easy-to-forget spots like your ears, scalp, and the back of your neck.
Accessorize with Purpose, Using Sunglasses
Sunglasses shield your eyes from UV rays that can cause eye problems. You don’t have to spring for a pricey set of shades (remember, the price tag doesn’t guarantee better protection); simply look for a pair that blocks 99% or 100% of UVB and UVA rays, and you’ll be good to go.
Limit Sun Exposure
Make sure to go out and get your vitamin D, but be conscious of the time you’re exposing yourself to the sun – especially between 10:00am and 4:00pm, when the sun’s rays are at their strongest. Plan your outdoor activities early in the morning or later in the afternoon. You can also find or create shade during those hours, by sitting under a tree at the park, bringing an umbrella to the beach, or scheduling an indoor lunch break during peak sun hours!
Use Sunscreen the Right Way
UV rays can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes. To protect your skin, put sunscreen on every part of your body that will be exposed to the sun, at least 15 minutes before going outside (even when it’s cloudy out). When choosing sunscreen, pick one with at least SPF 15 offering broad-spectrum protection from both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays. And remember, one coat of sunscreen doesn’t last all day. Reapply, reapply, reapply! You should reapply sunscreen every two hours and especially be sure to reapply more frequently if you’ve been swimming or sweating.
Keep these tips in mind as you venture into summer and enjoy your increased time outside. Stay safe and be well, everyone!