Man, where to even begin? Summer’s back in Florida and it’s miserable. Every time I step outside I immediately start pouring sweat. My laundry pile is reaching the heavens from having to change my shirt four and five times a day. Mosquitoes and parasites are flourishing, my allergies are going nuts. But, maybe the worst part, the sunburn is brutal! Even just working in my garden for fifteen minutes can leave me bright read across my shoulders and the back of my neck. And when I walk my dog, I come inside looking like I have a bright red mask on.
So, today I’m going over ways to avoid sunburns. Not only are they annoying, but they’re a legit health hazard. Everything from itching and peeling to cancer!
Sunscreen. Duh.
Tried and true, always my first choice. Sunscreen! Make sure you choose broad spectrum sunscreen, though. The sun produces three different kinds of ultraviolet rays. Some of these rays cause your skin to age quicker, while others cause skin cancer. So, for the best protection, make sure to use a sunscreen that protects against all three. The label should ensure that it provides ‘broad-spectrum’ protection, as I said above.
Also, make sure to choose and appropriate SPF. The lowest you should use is probably around SPF 15. But if you have pale, sensitive skin or are outside most of the day, SPF 50 should be your choice, if not even higher.
Also, sunscreen becomes less effective as time goes on. Be sure to check the experation date on yours. Apply generously, and re-apply throughout the day! Especially if you’re as sweaty as I am.
Avoid Overexposure
Another good way to avoid sunburn is to stay out of the way during the hottest parts of the day. From around 10 a.m. until about 4 p.m. the sun will be at it’s hottest. A quick way to tell if it’s too hot to be outside and if you’re risking sunburn is your shadow. If your shadow is longer than you are, you’re probably good. But if your shadow is shorter, you should head inside because U.V. exposure will be high.
Correct Clothing
I know your first reaction to the heat is less clothes, but that’s wrong. Loose-fitting, long sleeved clothes will be best. Make sure they’re dark colored as well, since that will block more U.V. rays. Also, if you have the money, some places sell U.V. resistant clothing which helps a ton.
Finally, shade!
This one’s a no brainer, but running from shady spot to shady spot if you have to be outside will always help reduce risk of sunburn. But remember, being in the shade doesn’t provide complete protection from the sun because you can still receive indirect sunlight that reflects off nearby surfaces, so you should still wear protective clothing and sunscreen to prevent sunburn.
