7 Ways Sunscreen Can Save Your Summer

Break out that sunscreen; I am so excited that summer is finally here!

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It is by far my favorite season of the whole year. I love being outside and hanging out at the beach. I do live in Pure Michigan, after all. 

Do you enjoy summer and being outside in the warm sun as much as I do? Just imagine the long days at the beach, the neighborhood barbeque, or the family reunion you attend every year. You tend to be outside all day in the hot sun at all these events.

You can have a lot of fun outside in the sun, but you need to make sure that you are not having so much fun that you are distracted by the damage the sun is doing to your skin. 

What’s worse is that your children might be suffering, as well. They are not going to think about protection. They also will need to think about the damage that can happen. That is until you (or a family member) notice the sunburns.

The good news is that there are things you can do to protect your family. You can do these before the sun causes any damage to you or your family.  

Here are the seven best tips:

Always Wear Sunscreen or Sunblock – 

1. Apply a broad-spectrum sunblock or sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 or higher liberally on all skin exposed to the sun.
2. Make sure you are reapplying every couple of hours.
3. Reapply after swimming or sweating.

Even the waterproof versions can come off with your towel, sweat, or spending extended periods in the water.

Wear a Sunhat or Bucket Hat (for guys). Any hat with a wide brim can protect areas prone to overexposure to the sun. These are also areas where we need to remember to apply sunscreen.

Cover Up Your Skin – Wearing tightly woven, loose-fitting, and full-length clothing is an excellent way to protect yourself from UV rays. There is unique clothing made to protect you from the sun without making you sweat.

Wear Sunglasses with UV Protection -Sunglasses that provide 99-100% UVA and UVB protection will protect you the most from sun exposure that can lead to cataracts and other eye damage. Check the label when buying sunglasses because it should be included.

Limit your time outside during Midday: The sun’s UV rays peak between 10 AM and 4 PM. Keep this in mind when scheduling outdoor activities. Try to complete outdoor chores in the morning or evening to avoid the peak hours.

Watch the UV (Ultra Violet) Index – This index provides data to help you plan your time outside to better prevent overexposure to the sun’s rays. It was developed by the National Weather Service (NWS) and EPA and is listed daily in cities across the United States.

Avoid Sunlamps and Tanning Beds – The light source from tanning beds and sunlamps causes damage to the skin and eyes. It’s best to avoid artificial sources of UV light when you can.

So, why am I sharing these tips with you? I want you to have the best summer that you can. I want you to be safe in the sun and your family to be safe in the sun.