There’s nothing like summer – and the barbeques, beach days, pool parties, and the fun in the sun that comes with it.
One of the best parts of summer is being outside with friends and loved ones and enjoying the warm weather. However, you’ll want to protect your skin from the sun’s harsh rays.
Besides being uncomfortable and painful, too much sun exposure can cause permanent damage to your skin – making it look leathery, dry, and wrinkly, and even increasing your chances of developing skin cancer.
A study by the American Cancer Society reveals that one out of five Americans has some form of skin cancer by the age of seventy.
Here are three preventative measures you can take to protect your skin from sun damage – this summer and year-round.
3 Easy Ways to Protect Your Skin This Summer
1. Wear a Hat and Protective Clothing
When you’re having fun outside in the sun – whether you’re having a laid-back picnic or getting some exercise – don’t forget to wear a hat to protect the delicate skin on your nose, lips, neck, and around your eyes. Choose a peak cap (like the best purple snapback hat) or a hat with a two or three-inch wide brim when outdoors.
While wearing a hat will protect your face from the sun’s rays and shade your eyes, you should also consider covering the rest of your body with protective clothing. Choose loose-fitting, light-colored clothes made from breathable cotton or linen.
2. Apply Sunscreen
While people in the modern age know the importance of wearing sunscreen, recent studies have shown that most people only use it when it’s sunny outside – this is a mistake. You should apply sunblock to all the exposed areas of your body during cloudy weather as well.
When choosing a sunscreen, pick one with an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 30 that blocks out both UVB and UVA radiation.
Fifteen minutes before going outside, apply around an ounce (one shot glass’ worth) of sunscreen to all the exposed parts of your body. All sunblock must be reapplied every two hours and right after swimming. Be sure to apply sunscreen on your ears and use a lip balm with built-in SPF. If you wear concealer, choose makeup with SPF to add layers of extra protection to your face. You can also purchase a moisturizer with built-in SPF.
3. Stay in the Shade During Peak Hours
Between the hours of 10 am and 4 pm, the sun is at its strongest. If you are exposed to the sun during these hours, you have a higher chance of getting sunburned. Avoid these peak hours by planning ahead and scheduling outdoor activities at other times whenever possible. Additionally, when you expose your tattoos to the sun, you are getting tattoo fading big time!
If avoiding outdoor activities during the sun’s peak hours is impossible, try to stay in the shade to minimize your skin’s exposure to harmful UV rays. Umbrellas, trees, and other shelters can provide some relief from the sun’s rays. A good rule is to avoid spending time in the sun if your shadow appears shorter than you.
Final words
In conclusion, protecting your skin during the summer is crucial for maintaining its health and appearance. With these three easy tips, you can keep your skin safe from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. Wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and staying in the shade during peak hours are all simple and effective ways to shield your skin from sun damage.
By taking these steps, you can enjoy the warm weather and outdoor activities without sacrificing your skin’s health. So, don’t forget to protect your skin this summer and enjoy a safe and healthy season!
