How to protect your skin from harmful UV rays
Only 15 minutes in the sun can damage your skin. It is always nice to spend time outside to get Vitamin D, but UV rays can be harmful if you don't take precautions.
Photo by Jared Rice on Unsplash
Slathering on some aloe vera gel is not going to work, but applying sunscreen, avoiding sunlight, and wearing protective clothing are essential when the rays are strongest in the middle of the day. So, before heading outside to enjoy the sunshine and the warm weather, here is what you need to know about skin protection. Read more below.
Choose Sunscreen
Sunscreens effectively minimize the risk of sunburn and skin aging. Applying sunscreen is essential even if it is cloudy outside. When choosing the sunscreen, pick the one with a good SPF (30 or higher) that blocks harmful UVA and UVB rays and is water-resistant.
Though, applying a thick layer of sunscreen is enough to prevent harmful rays from damaging your skin. But, if your skin is delicate and even in 15 minutes, it gets affected, carry a Sunny Days Kit. Such kits include the essentials, like manuka honey cream, bandages, and ointment, to prepare you for the adventures that might come your way anytime. So, if it is a sand range seashell cut, stubbed toes, or sunburn, the products in the kit will protect your skin.
Cover yourself with clothing
Wearing protective clothing is the best way to lessen UV rays exposure. Though different clothing gives different levels of protection, choosing the right one is essential. Below are the clothing types that minimize sun damage to the skin:
Dry fabrics
Darker colors
Thicker fabrics like denim than thin fabrics like cotton.
Several brands make lightweight, comfortable clothes that give protection from UV rays. So, while picking the garments, look for those labeled with a UV protection factor (UPF).
Stay under the shade
Seek shade whenever and wherever you go. It is the best way to limit exposure to UV rays. Whether setting up a tent on the beach or seeking shelter under a tree, it is crucial to apply shade during the sun's most substantial hours. Babies should always be protected from sun rays by umbrellas, hats, or strollers.
Wear a hat with a brim
To get more protection from the sun, wear a hat with a brim around your ears, face, and neck. Tightly woven cotton fabrics like canvas are best for skin protection from UV rays. Do not use straw hats with holes, as these let the sunlight pass through. A darker hat might give great UV protection as well.
Avoid sunlamps and tanning beds
For many, UV rays from tanning beds seem harmless. But, they are not!!! These also give out UVB and UVA rays, damage the skin and sometimes lead to skin cancer.
A tanning bed is linked with melanoma, particularly if it is started before 30. Many health organizations do not advise using sunlamps and tanning beds.
Staying in is a great way to avoid skin damage from UV rays. But avoiding going outside is not possible. So, apply sunscreen, avoid sunlamps and tanning beds, wear shades, a hat, and so on.
Be more cautious if you take drugs like anti-inflammatories, antibiotics, chemotherapies, or blood pressure medications; otherwise, your skin will become more sensitive. Hope that these tips will help you stay healthy and protected.