It's summertime, and the weather is HOT! Follow these 4 tips to help you with sun safety this summer.
It is no secret that the warm, beautiful weather all makes us feel some type of way. Whether you are a "take a book outside to read" or a "car windows all the way down with good tunes playing" type of person, the sunshine can boost anyone's mood. But, are you being safe when it comes to sun exposure? Most of these tips you've probably heard before, but it never hurts to refresh your memory. Not only do you need to protect your skin, but also keep your body safe.
#1 - Water, Water, Everywhere
The weather the last couple of days has been no joke with temperatures feeling like they are in the triple digits. If you know you are going to be outside it is important to start drinking your water early.
Did you know that it is suggested to drink at least 1 cup of water every 15-20 minutes when you're outside in the heat? This is equivalent to 1 quart of water every hour!
Once you have returned inside for the day, it is important to continue drinking water. You must replace all the fluids you lost throughout the day from sweat.
It is important to stay away from alcohol and caffeine when out in the heat. These can actually cause dehydration. The sugars from sports drinks can also throw your body all out of sorts. Keep the H20 handy.
#2 - Sunscreen Culture
This is always a touchy subject. Back in the day, we were greasing up with baby oil before we laid out in the sun. We pretty much made ourselves into a frying pan. Today, the CDC recommends wearing at least SPF 15 to reduce the risk of skin cancer and early aging.
When looking for a "good" sunscreen, find products that are labeled "broad spectrum". Also, be on the lookout for "water resistant" and "waterproof". These products will help when you are expecting to be in the water or sweating while wearing sun screen.
It is always important to reapply. No sunscreen, no matter the SPF, will last forever.
#3 - Keep Your Eyes on the Prize
I don't know about you, but my sunglasses are my greatest accessory in the summer. Not only do they keep my eyes protected, but you can people watch everyone on the beach.
Make sure to chose a pair of sunglasses with "100% UV protection". These are providing you with the most protection and blocking 99% of the radiation. Don't mistake a dark-tinted glasses for protection.
The bigger the better-- yes, for sunglasses, too. Any frame that is large and has a wraparound style may provide you with more protection. Just because they are expensive doesn't mean they are protecting your eyes.
#4 - Time Is Of The Essence
If you are completing yard work or fitting in some physical activity, attempt to complete these task before 10am or after 4pm. In between these times is typically your hottest parts of the day and the sun is the strongest. The times in the middle of the day put you at the greatest risk for heat exhaustion.
Summer State of Mind
It's that time of year that we all look forward to. Family vacations, cookouts, warm weather, and long days of sunshine. Enjoy it! Soak it all in! But, always take care of yourself, too.
Comentarios