4 Ways to Prevent Sunburn This Summer

A sunny day can be the perfect opportunity to get outside, have fun, and enjoy summer to the fullest. However, your time in the sun can also have an unintended consequence: a sunburn. Not only are sunburns uncomfortable, they can cause permanent skin damage, premature aging, and increase your risk of skin cancer. Taking the right steps can help prevent sunburns without skimping on outdoor fun.

Slather on Sunblock

If you’re going to be outside, slather on sunblock! Broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher is generally preferable.

Standard guidelines encourage reapplying every two hours. However, if there’s a particularly high UV index, if you sweat a lot, or if you get wet, you may want to reapply even more often.

If it’s cloudy out, that doesn’t give you a pass from applying sunblock! The UV rays are still out even if the sun is hiding.

Seek Shade

Seeking shade can be a convenient and comfortable way to avoid sunburn. You might seek shade in an outdoor covered area, like a patio. If you’re on the move, an umbrella can also offer shade. Look for an umbrella marked with a UPF rating to find an option designed for sun protection.

Avoid the Sun

The sun is usually the most intense during the peak hours between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Even with other measures in place, it can be exceptionally hard to prevent burns during this time frame. If your schedule is flexible, you might consider planning activities for early morning and late afternoon to avoid the midday sun.

Cover Up

If you don’t want to coat every inch of your body in sunblock, you might also consider wearing protective clothing. Some clothes advertise a UPF, which indicates how well they’ll block UV rays. However, even clothing that doesn’t advertise a specific UPF may block some rays. Garments with a denser weave, thicker fabrics, and darker colors are often more effective at blocking UV rays. A wide-brimmed hat can shield your scalp and face. And don’t forget about your eye area! Wearing sunglasses can help prevent burns near your eyes.

Preventing sunburn isn’t always easy, but with these four methods, you can enjoy the sun without suffering through a burn.