Summer goes so fast. More time spent on the playground, at barbeques, in the pool, dozing at the beach and in the garden.
More time outdoors equates to greater UV exposure.
But this doesn’t just go for summer. Obviously, protection from UVA or UVB rays is paramount during the summer months but it’s actually essential all year long.
Why?
What should we be doing to protect ourselves in summer and during every season.
While August is Sun Safety Month, protecting your skin from the sun is a year-round effort to minimize sun damage.
Winter, spring, summer or fall, here are safety tips to protect you from UV exposure all year long:
SUMMER
Sine we spend more time outdoors overall in summer, the skin is most exposed during this seasons. During this season, be sure to:
- USE Sunscreen: Apply broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen of at least 30 every two hours at a minimum and immediately after swimming.
- CHOOSE UV Swimwear: Swimwear is now available with built-in UV protection, affording you an extra layer of defense from the sun. In addition, wear a hat to provide greater face and neck protection from the sun’s rays.
- FIND Shade: Utilize umbrellas, awnings or other options for finding or defining shady spots. This will protect from sunburn and overheating during peak sunlight.
- ENSURE Hydration: Drink lots of water throughout the day so you stay well-hydrated. Being in the sun can speed up dehydration rapidly so don’t leave home without a water bottle.
FALL
Fall triggers cooler temps yet the sun is still very strong. During this season, be sure to:
- CONTINUE TO USE Sunscreen: Continues the use of the same level of sunscreen mentioned above daily, especially on body parts still exposed to the sun, such as face and hands.
- WEAR Layers: Dress in layers to protect your skin from the sun and elements for easy removal and add on.
- ENGAGE IN Outdoor Activities: Enjoy shade while outdoors, such as when hiking, walking or enjoying fall-related outdoor activities. Choose a broad-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Hydration remains important this season, too.
WINTER
Make no mistake. Sun during wintertime can be just as damaging to your skin. We’re just not outside as much. However, snow reflects UV rays and increases sun exposure. During this season, be sure to:
- APPLY Sunscreen: Use the same aforementioned level of sunscreen on all of exposed skin and reapply every two hours if spending time outdoors.
- USE Moisturizer: Consider applying moisturizer that contains SPF as it can protect skin against both UV rays and dry conditions often experienced during the winter months. Products with ingredients that contain moisturizing features, such as hyaluronic acid and glycerin, help to lock in moisture, so they make good choices.
- WEAR Protective Gear: Wool or fleece hats, scarves and gloves make great companions during wintertime as do sunglasses that block UV. They can block out those potentially harmful rays that cause squinting, and contribute to fine lines often seen in the areas closely surrounding the eyes.
SPRING
Spring days become longer and warmer, signaling that summer is just around the corner – the season where you are most prone to UV ray exposure. During this season, be sure to:
- USE Sunscreen: Still keep that SPF 30 sunscreen handy, applying it to all potential exposed areas 30 minutes prior to sun exposure, with reapplication every two hours. Increase applications if spending time in water or when sweating.
- CHOOSE Protective Clothes: Consider long-sleeved shirts, long pants and wide-brimmed hats to help block the sun’s rays from your skin. Choose sun-protective clothing to block UV rays or lightweight, tightly woven fabrics as they offer the best protection.
- PUT ON Sunglasses: Those UV-blocking shades can be your best friend since they block 100% of the UVA and UVB rays. Choose a pair that wraps around your face to offer side eye protection.
In summary, SUN SAFETY must remain a year-round priority.
Every season, keep these tips fresh and top-of-mind: use sunscreen with 30 SPF, wear UV protective clothing, sport those cool-looking UV-blocking shades and don’t forget to bring a sun-blocking hat. Once you are armed with these sun-friendly tools, you can safely and comfortably experience the joys of every season.