Just talking about sun safety brings to mind an image of the beach, the sweet smell of cocoa butter and the sounds of seagulls. We do need to protect ourselves from the sun during summertime at the beach or pool, but this is a good time to remind ourselves that we need to be cautious of the sun’s rays year round. The sun can feel good as it warms our skin, helps the body make Vitamin D and positively affect our mood and emotions.
Being smart in the sun helps you gain all the benefits without the adverse effect of sun burns, heat stroke and skin cancer. Ultraviolet rays from the sun can reach you even when it’s hazy so don’t skip the sunscreen just because there’s cloud cover. It can take as little as 15 minutes in the sun to damage skin or burn. Apply your sunscreen before you leave the house. It assures you won’t forget later, plus it starts protecting you the minute you go out into the rays. Use a sunscreen with at least an SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 15. Reapply every two hours, after you go swimming or have been sweating a lot.
Some make-ups or moisturizers contain sunscreen, using them daily can protect your face from pre-mature aging and wrinkles. Enjoy the sun and seek shelter in the shade to balance your outdoor enjoyment! Keep in mind when outdoors that the strongest hours of the sun are from 10 am to 4 pm.
Plan ahead by:
- Applying sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher
- Wearing a hat and UV blocking sunglasses
- Drinking plenty of water
- Seek shade during peak hours
- Know the UV index to prevent overexposure to the sun