Summer is here! While you relax at the beach or enjoy outdoor activities, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful rays by using these important tips:
Shield Yourself
Don a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face, ears, and the back of your neck. Choose hats without holes, as they can allow sunlight to pass through. Additionally, consider wearing lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants made from tightly woven fabric.
Seek Shade
When the sun’s UV radiation is most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., stay in the shade. This holds true even on overcast or cloudy days, as the sun can still harm your skin. Exercise caution near reflective surfaces such as water, snow and sand, as they can amplify the sun’s damaging rays.
Apply Sunscreen
Prioritize broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30, protecting against Ultraviolet A (UV-A) and Ultraviolet B (UV-B) rays. Sunscreen gradually wears off, so remember to reapply it if you spend more than two hours in the sun, or after swimming, sweating and toweling off. It is important to check the expiration date of your sunscreen, as hot temperatures can reduce its effectiveness. Most sunscreens have a shelf life of approximately three years.
Safeguard Your Eyes
Remember UV rays can harm your eyes as well. Studies have demonstrated that prolonged exposure to bright sunlight without proper protection can increase the risk of cataracts and eye growth, including cancer. The sun’s rays reflected off sand and water can cause sunburn in your eyes, resulting in symptoms such as redness, blurry vision, sensitivity to light and temporary vision loss. To protect your eyes, wear broad-brimmed hats and opt for sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection.
Enjoy the summer months responsibly by incorporating these sun safety practices into your routine.
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About the Author
Sherry Stick is the fitness and aquatics coordinator at Carroll Lutheran Village and has been working for CLV for nearly 20 years.
