Everything under the sun is not all that well, especially under scorching heat in the middle of summer. After all, excessive sun exposure has been named the culprit of severe skin damage, premature skin aging and skin cancer.
Here are some tips to avoid skin problems from the sun.
Limit Sun Exposure
Direct exposure to the sun, especially from 10am to 4pm in on hot summer days, can cause sunburn in just 20 minutes. So avoid being in the sun during that time unless absolutely necessary. Sun exposure is also more intense in places near the equator and in the mountains. Stay indoors if possible. Try to limit sun exposure to early mornings or late afternoons.
Wear Sun Protective Clothing
Cover up as much as possible, preferably with sun protective clothing. Clothing with ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) ratings of between 15 and 50 is now available. The problem is most clothing with a high UPF rating often uses close-knit materials, which can be very hot.
Hats should be worn too but not straw hats or worse, baseball caps worn backwards! Instead, opt for wide brim hats made of thick cotton which offer great sun protection for the face, ears, neck and chest. If possible, look for hats with a UPF index of at least 30.
Apply Sunscreens
Apply a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) rating of over 30 thoroughly on exposed areas of the body before going out. Reapply sunscreen every few hours, especially for those who sweat a lot, play sport or swim. Using a water-resistant sunscreen will help eliminate the need to keep reapplying it. Do note that water-resistant sunscreens are only effective if they are not removed. Towelling the body after a swim will remove much of the sunscreen, making it necessary to reapply it.
While applying sunscreens definitely helps, there is little point in diligently applying a sunscreen only to stay out longer in the sun!
Be Aware of Reflections
Be aware of reflections of water, snow, glass, sand, cement and any reflective surfaces as these may increase exposure to ultraviolet lights significantly. Sun damage can also occur through windows. That’s why drivers and car passengers should apply a sunscreen and wear appropriate clothing to avoid excessive sun exposure. Another note to remember is that sunlight can penetrate water down to 10 feet.
Move Around
Those who have to be out in the sun should try to move around as much as they can. A person who runs around on the beach all day is likely to develop an overall tan while another who prefers lying down under the hot sun will get badly burnt on one side of the body in a very short period of time.
Adequate sun protection is crucial to prevent sun damage. It’s even more important on hot summer days. Try to avoid sun damage by limiting sun exposure, wearing sun protective clothing, applying sunscreens, being aware of reflections and moving around while out in the sun.
Those who find this article useful may also like to read Sun Protection for Children and Using Sunscreen Products Wisely.
References:
Hugh Molloy and Garry Egger. Skin Fitness. New South Wales: Allen & Unwin, 2008
Dr. Phillip Artemi and Tina Aspres. All about Kids’ Skin: The Essential Guide for Parents. Sydney: ABC Books, 2008.
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