We are officially in the month of June which is the start of summer for many. With the weather getting nice out, that means people are going to be spending more time outdoors. More outdoor time means more sun exposure and more chances for us to get sunburnt.
We all have experienced an amazing fun day only to come home to discover our skin is tender and red. There are simple ways to avoid sun burn and to help protect your skin.
Stay in the Shade or wear UVB Clothing
If possible, try to stay in the shade as much as possible. If you are going out and you know you will be in direct sun for a period of time, try to cover up sensitive areas by wearing a hat, a UVB shirts and breathable shawls. No one wants to wear a long sleeve shirt on the beach but they do sell bathing suits that are protective against UVB rays that you can purchase. However, even if you plan to stay in the shade you should always wear sunscreen. Even in cloudy weather, you can get sunburnt. If you are able to, try not to go out when the sun is at its peak. Between 10AM and 2PM is when the sun is at its strongest.
Wear Sunscreen
Sunscreen is the best way to prevent sunburn when you are outdoors. However, sunscreen can be daunting for some people. There are hundreds of different brands and ingredients that I can be a little overwhelming for some. After factoring in the brand and scent you like, you need to pay attention to the numbers. People believe that the higher the SPF number is the better the protection is. That is actually false. The higher an SPF is really just a false sense of security. SPF 15 blocks 94% of UVB rays while SPF 30 blocks 97%. Anything after 30 is increased only incremental. So when you are standing in the store looking for sunscreen and find yourself saying "which SPF do I need?" the short answer is SPF 30. In addition to your SPF number, make sure you grab a broad spectrum sunscreen - one that protects you from UVB and UVA rays. Whats the difference? UVB causing burning and UVA causes aging to the skin.
Reapply Sunscreen Often
You bought your SPF 30, you applied an adequate amount but you still manage to burn. Why? Chances are you did not apply your sunscreen enough. You had the right idea when you left the house - applied your sunscreen 30mins prior to your intended sun exposure but you never reapplied after that. Reapplication is essential if you are going fight against UVB/UVA rays. You should reapply your sunscreen every two hours and immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. The biggest cause for your sunscreen to fail is by not reapplying it.
Stay safe in the sun!
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