Did you know that it only takes around 15 minutes for the sun to damage your skin? However, you can keep your skin safe with the right strategy. Follow some tips to protect your skin, and you’ll be able to enjoy the sun’s rays without the damaging effects.
Apply Sunscreen Before Going Outside
Sunscreen is your best line of defense against UV rays, so make sure to put it on before going outside. This is an important tip to follow, even on cloudy days. Choose a sunscreen that’s SPF 30 or higher, and reapply it as needed.
If you have children who are younger than six months old, they can’t use sunscreen. Now, they can go outside for periods of time but need to wear protective clothing. Also, keep them in the shade so that they don’t experience the intense rays.
Put On Your Shades
A good pair of sunglasses with UVB and UVA protection can properly protect you from the rays this summer. Your sunglasses will keep the sun from damaging the skin around your eyes and also reduce your risk of cataracts. That’s a double win.
Throw on a Wide-Brimmed Hat
A wide-brimmed hat will shade your neck, ears, and face, so put one on each time you go outside. Now, you can wear a baseball cap instead, but you won’t get as much protection. However, you can stay safe by combining the hat with sunscreen.
Stay Inside Between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
While you can get sunburned any time of the day, you’re most at risk between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Stay indoors during these hours if possible. If you can’t stay indoors, make sure you’re in a shady area. You can hunker down under a tree or umbrella, so you won’t get the full impact of the UV rays.
Check Your Medications
NSAIDs, antihistamines, and some other medications can make your skin more susceptible to sunburn. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about the medications you’re taking and what you can do to stay safe outdoors. You might need to spend less time outside when on those medications.
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Don’t Use Tanning Beds
It’s a myth that tanning beds are an effective way to decrease the risk of sunburn. Instead, these beds emit damaging UVA and UVB rays, so they do much more harm than good. Instead of using tanning beds, consider getting a spray tan.
Keep these tips in mind all summer long and share them with your friends. Then, you and your crew will be able to enjoy the gorgeous weather without putting your skin at risk.
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