Sidestep the Sunburn

Summertime means waterparks, paddleboarding, and enjoying time at the pool, but don’t let the joy of summer turn into sunburn and regret. Did you know that we were actually designed to absorb UV energy into our skin and that our skin will actually help protect our bodies? It’s amazing and it’s true. Unfortunately, the method of protection isn’t always aesthetically pleasing. The resulting dark spots throughout our various layers of skin can take years to surface but will also trigger inflammation and induce free radical damage. It’s so important to protect skin before sun damage takes place (we’re talking toddlers-teens), but it’s never too late to start practicing safe sun care. Here are a few tips to incorporate sun protection into your summer fun.

1)      Wear SPF of 30 or higher

2)      Allow time for your SPF to absorb before going into the water or sun (especially if it’s a chemical SPF which often suggests 30 min.-read your label)

3)      Reapply every 90 min- 2hours especially when in the water or after toweling off.

4)      Wear a hat and/or sleeves to cover your bare skin.

5)      Stay out of the sun between the hours of 10am-3pm when the UV index is the highest.

Summertime doesn’t have to mean sun damage. You can beat the burn!