By Minerve Jean
@minerverii // Minervejean.com / / jeanminerverii@gmail.com
Summer is officially here and with it comes the sun, sand and everything in between. It’s a time for beach visits, bucket lists completions, vacations or simply relaxing a little more. Whatever you choose to do this summer, it’s important to remember to take care of your skin in the heat of the summer. In honor of National Keep Out of the Sun Day, we’ve got a few tips to keep you safe, protected and definitely having the best summer ever.
Ever heard of the saying too much of a good thing is bad? Although going to the beach everyday sounds fun, (we know, we get excited too), skin cancer and sun damage are a real danger. Overexposure can increase your risk of skin cancer. Another aspect of overexposure includes faster aging since the sun’s rays are hitting you directly thus doubling your absorption of UV lights. We aren’t saying that you should never go outside again, but we are saying that limiting your exposure of the sun helps protect against its harmful effects.
1. You scream I scream, we all scream for sunscreen
If you’re headed to the beach or simply plan on staying outside longer, use sunscreen, a popular form of skin protection. Applying 15 minutes before you brave the rays and reapplying every two hours will help keep you protected. The recommended amount of SPF is 30. A rule of thumb to remember when shopping for sunscreen is that the higher the SPF, the higher the amount of protection you get. We also cheer on using organic sunscreens (the fewer chemicals the better right?)
*Fun Fact* SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor
2. Cover up, No Shade
So, you might have this cute bikini you want to wear or an awesome outfit you can’t wait to show off. Don’t worry, you still can. Adding pieces like hats and cover-ups can not only spice up your already amazing outfit but you can also limit the sun’s rays. If you’re at the beach or just taking a stroll, bring an umbrella with you. Lastly, wearing sunglasses, especially ones that specially says that it blocks 99% or 100% of UVB and UVA rays are always recommended.
3. Touch my Body
You know your body better than anyone. That’s why it’s important to do daily or even weekly body checks. Daily body checks can apply more to just the skin, it’s an all-around checkup from your scalp to your feet. Do you notice a spot you haven’t had before? Or see something unusual? Body checks can help you keep your health in check by catching something sooner rather than later and seeking the proper treatment for it.
These tips will help you to increase protection against the sun and still have fun. Who wouldn’t want the best of both worlds?
Information courtesy of: https://www.cancer.net/blog/2015-07/10-tips-protecting-your-skin-sun