Summer is here again, and with it comes the bright sun and the warm weather. If you plan on spending a lot of time outside this summer, it is important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

The sun can cause serious damage to your skin, including premature aging, sunburns, and even skin cancer. With a few simple tips, you can shield your face from the sun and keep your skin looking healthy and beautiful.

1. Wear A Hat

One of the easiest ways to protect your face from the sun is to wear a hat. A wide-brimmed hat is especially effective at shielding your face, neck, and ears from the sun’s harmful rays.

Look for hats made from lightweight materials, such as cotton or straw, to keep cool in the summer heat. Baseball caps are a popular option, but they only protect the front of your face and leave your ears and neck exposed to the sun. Opt for a wider-brimmed hat instead.

2. Use Sunscreen

Sunscreen is another important tool in protecting your face from the sun. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and apply it every two hours, or more often if you are swimming or sweating.

Make sure to apply enough sunscreen to cover all exposed areas of your face, including your nose, cheeks, chin, and forehead. If you have sensitive skin, look for a sunscreen that is free of fragrances and other potential irritants.

3. Wear Sunglasses

Sunglasses not only protect your eyes from the sun’s glare, but they also shield the delicate skin around your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.

Look for sunglasses with a high level of UV protection to ensure that they block out both UVA and UVB rays. Wraparound sunglasses are a great option as they provide coverage from all angles, including the sides of your face and your peripheral vision.

4. Seek Out Shade

When spending time outside, look for shaded areas where you can take a break from direct sunlight. Trees, umbrellas, and canopies all provide excellent shade and can help keep you cool on hot summer days.

When planning outdoor activities, try to schedule them during the early morning or late afternoon when the sun’s rays are less intense.

5. Wear A Neck Gaiter

A neck gaiter is a tubular piece of fabric that can be worn around your neck, pulled up over your face, or used as a headband. In addition to keeping you warm in cold weather, a neck gaiter can also protect your face from the sun’s harmful rays.

Look for gaiters made from lightweight, breathable material that won’t make you feel too hot and uncomfortable.

6. Use A Sun Umbrella

A sun umbrella is another great tool for shielding your face from the sun. Look for an umbrella with a UV protective coating to provide an extra level of protection.

Sun umbrellas are particularly useful for those who spend a lot of time outdoors, as they can be easily carried with you and provide shade wherever you go.

7. Reapply Sunscreen and Avoid Midday Sun

If you are going to be spending a lot of time outside, it is important to reapply your sunscreen every two hours to ensure that you are protected from the sun’s harmful rays.

In addition, try to avoid spending time in the sun during the hottest part of the day, from 10 am to 4 pm, when the sun’s rays are the strongest.

8. Wear Protective Clothing

In addition to a hat and sunscreen, wearing protective clothing can also help shield your face from the sun. Look for clothing made from lightweight, breathable fabric that provides coverage for your arms and legs.

Long-sleeved shirts, pants, and maxi dresses are all great options for staying cool and covered in the summer heat.

9. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is key to keeping your skin healthy and protected from the sun. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid alcoholic beverages and caffeine, which can dehydrate you.

In addition, eat fruits and vegetables that are high in water content, such as watermelon, cucumbers, and grapes, to help keep yourself hydrated from the inside out.

10. Take Care of Your Skin

Finally, taking care of your skin is essential to keeping it healthy and youthful-looking. Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face every day, and avoid using harsh scrubs or exfoliants that can damage your skin.

Moisturize your skin regularly to keep it soft and supple, and if you do get sunburned, treat it with a cooling gel or aloe vera to help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.