There is so much to love about the South in the summertime, including balmy breezes and sultry nights. However, the scorching southern summer sun can be a dangerous if you are not properly protected from harmful UV rays. Taking the proper precautions is not only important to protect your skin from a nasty sunburn, it could also help prevent skin cancer down the road.
- Avoid peak hours - If at all possible, refrain from exposing your skin to direct sunlight during midday hours. This is the time when UV rays are most intense. Also, be aware that sand and water reflect sunlight, so if you’re at the beach you are even more vulnerable to the impact of UV rays.
- Cover up - When out in the sun try to keep skin covered by wearing long-sleeves and pants if possible. In addition, wearing a hat can guard your neck and face from prolonged exposure. Finally remember that dark-colored garments offer the best protection.
- Use Sunscreen - You should always use sunscreen when you will be exposed to the sun; however, it is beneficial to wear it every day, as UV rays are also present when the sun is not visible. Use a sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 15 or higher and read the directions for proper application. It is also important to reapply your sunscreen often, especially if you are swimming or sweating a lot as this will wash it away more quickly.
- Sunglasses - Make certain your sunglasses can block UV rays to help protect your eyes from serious sun damage. Quality sunglasses should have a UV ray absorption rate of 99% to 100%. And, just because the lenses are darker does not mean the the UV protection is higher. UV rays are blocked by a chemical applied to the lenses and not the color of the lens.
- Avoid tanning beds - Tanning beds and sunlamps are not free of UV rays. While they might make your skin more attractive in the short-term, they significantly increase your risk of developing skin cancer in the long-term.
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