Summer is here and it’s the perfect time to soak up the sun and enjoy the great outdoors. With the summer holidays in full swing, you’re probably planning plenty of outdoor activities and beach trips.
However, with the sun’s rays getting stronger by the day, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to stay safe in the sun. In this article, we will provide you with helpful tips on how to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays.
Wear Protective Clothing
Wearing protective clothing is an effective way to shield yourself from the sun’s rays. Light-colored, loose-fitting clothing made of breathable fabric is ideal for hot summer days.
You can also wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck from the sun’s rays. Try to avoid wearing dark colors since they absorb more heat and can make you feel even hotter.
Use Sunscreen
Sunscreen is an essential tool that can protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. Choose a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 30 or higher.
Apply it generously on all exposed skin, including your face, neck, and ears. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to areas that are often overlooked such as your feet and the back of your neck. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
Avoid Peak Sun Hours
The sun’s rays are the strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so it’s best to avoid outdoor activities during these hours. If you must be outside, seek shade as much as possible.
You can also wear a wide-brimmed hat and protective clothing to reduce your exposure to the sun’s rays.
Stay Hydrated
When you’re out in the sun, your body loses water faster than usual through sweating. It’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages since they can dehydrate your body even more.
Be Aware of Medication Side Effects
Some medications can increase your skin’s sensitivity to the sun’s rays. If you’re taking medication, always read the label and check with your doctor or pharmacist to see if it has any photosensitive side effects.
If it does, take extra precautions to protect your skin from the sun’s rays.
Protect Your Eyes
The sun’s rays can also damage your eyes, so it’s important to wear sunglasses that offer both UVA and UVB protection. Look for sunglasses that have wraparound frames to provide additional sun protection for your eyes and the delicate skin around them.
Check Your Skin Regularly
Regularly checking your skin can help you detect any changes that may be a sign of skin cancer. Look for any new moles, changes in color or shape of existing moles, and any rough or scaly patches on your skin.
If you notice any changes, consult your doctor or a dermatologist immediately.
Be Careful with Tanning
It’s tempting to get a tan during the summer, but prolonged exposure to the sun’s rays can increase your risk of skin cancer.
If you want to get a tan, use a self-tanner or visit a salon that offers spray tans instead of tanning beds or lying in the sun for long periods of time.
Be Extra Careful on Cloudy Days
Even on cloudy days, the sun’s rays can still penetrate through the clouds and cause damage to your skin. It’s important to take the same precautions on cloudy days as you would on sunny days.
Conclusion
Enjoying the great outdoors is an amazing experience, but it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays.
By following the tips we’ve discussed in this article, you’ll be able to stay safe in the sun this August.
