Before leaving your house this summer, remember that exposing your skin to the dangerous sun’s UV rays makes you vulnerable to skin cancer, sunburn, and early aging. The following eight tips can help to ensure your skin’s safety from the sun.
1. Seek Shade Whenever Possible
A lot of people love going outside to enjoy the warm weather. However, it increases their skin’s exposure to dangerous UV rays. You can protect yourself by staying under a tree, tent, or any other shade whenever you can. This tip is more important during the peak hours, like between 10 am and 4 pm.
2. Always Wear Sunscreen
One of the primary ways to protect your skin from daily skin damage is to apply sunscreen, even on slightly cold days. The best way to apply this product is at least 15 minutes before you go outside to allow your skin to absorb it.
Manufacturers equip sunscreen with a sun protection factor that helps to block UV rays. Since the product wears off after some time, remember to reapply it on your skin if you expose your body to the sun for more than 2 hours. Additionally, use it again after certain activities like swimming. Ensure that you choose the right type of sunscreen that is gentle on your skin.
3. Always Wear a Cap
Caps and hats will shade your face to protect it from the sun. Today, you can find different cap styles and colors. Those with tightly woven fabric are the best because they do not allow sunlight to pass through. Also, consider investing in darker headwear because it reflects the sun. You can also choose caps with brims all around to shade your ears, face, and neck.
4. Wear Protective Clothing
Wearing clothes that cover your body is an excellent way to keep your skin safe from sun damage. Therefore, ensure that you wear pants and long-sleeved shirts if you plan to spend your day outdoors.
It is important to note that the level of protection you receive depends on the type of clothing. Garments with darker colors, dry fabrics, and thicker fabrics like denim offer more protection. Moreover, consider purchasing clothes with a UV protection factor (UPF) label.
5. Wear Sunglasses
A pair of sunglasses is a significant component of a sun-protective wardrobe. They protect your eyes and the tender skin around them from UV rays. There are different types of sunglasses on the market today.
However, the wrap-around ones are the best because they prevent the sun from entering from the side. It is also important to note that just because the lenses are dark does not mean that they can offer UV protection. This is why you should read the label before making the purchase.
6. Stay Hydrated
Did you know you can protect your skin from sun damage from the inside? You can do this by drinking enough water throughout the day. This will keep your skin moist and improve its ability to retain pliability. This way, your skin will be less likely to appear flaky or chapped on a hot day.
7. Adopt a Healthy Diet
Another simple way to boost your skin protection from the inside out is by eating foods that are good for your skin. For instance, you can incorporate blueberries and watermelon in your breakfast smoothie. These fruits contain vitamin C and powerful antioxidants that eliminate skin-damaging free radicals.
Nuts and seeds should also be part of your diet. They contain vital omega-3s that can help your skin cope with the effects of prolonged exposure to the sun. Leafy greens provide multiple antioxidants that can protect your skin from sun damage and wrinkling.
You should also consider taking green tea at least once a day. It contains compounds that reduce the damage that UVA light causes to the skin. They also preserve collagen, which makes the skin firmer.
8. Avoid Tanning Beds
Dermatologists indicate that tanning beds increase the risk of skin cancer. If you want to achieve a sun-kissed glow, consider using safer products like self-tanning body lotion.
Conclusively, guarding your skin against the sun prevents damage and keeps it looking healthy. With these eight simple tips in mind, you should prepare to enjoy your summer, knowing that your skin will remain safe from the scorching sun.
