If you’ve had sunburn, you know it’s something to be avoided. Even (and especially) on hazy or snowy days, the sun can reflect off the moisture and be damaging. Luckily, sunburn is completely avoidable — even if you are spending time outdoors. You just have to protect yourself!
Wear sunscreen. Find a broad-spectrum sunscreen to wear when outdoors. Always opt for SPF 15 or more. The higher the SPF, the more UV rays you are avoiding. However, don’t forget to reapply periodically and check the sunscreen expiration date.
Stay in a shady area. If you are going to the beach or sitting outdoors, make sure to bring an umbrella or find a tree. Even if you are in the shade, be sure to wear sunscreen.
Wear sunglasses. Opt for sunglasses that block UVA and UVB rays. Believe it or not, you can get sunburn on your eyes (and on your eyelids). This can be very damaging to your vision and is a major cause of cataracts.
Put on a hat. A hat with a brim goes a long way. It protects your eyes, your face, ears, and even your shoulders. Avoid fabrics with holes in them as tightly woven fabrics block more harmful rays.
In addition to these precautions, limit your time in the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. It only takes 15 minutes to get sunburn, but the damage is long lasting. Take the extra five minutes to grab a hat, sunglasses, and to apply some sunscreen.