Avoiding Sunburn

Everyone loves a good tan! That’s what summer seems to be about, isn’t it? However, avoiding overexposure to the sun is critical for preventing bad tans and sunburn. Why is this important? Overexposure (and that does not mean a burn) can lead to skin cancer.  Spending too much time in the sun is not healthy for your skin cells.

#1 Wear lightweight long-sleeve shirts and pants. What’s the best way to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays (UVR)? Clothing is the most basic, and generally the best. means of sun protection. Not all clothing is equal, however, and some of it isn’t actually very good at protecting us. So, what makes a piece of clothing sun-safe?

Fabrics are made of tiny fibers woven or knitted together. The tighter the knit or weave, the smaller the holes and the less UV can get through.. Synthetic fibers like polyester, lycra, nylon, and acrylic are more protective than bleached cotton, and shiny or lustrous semi-synthetic fabrics like rayon reflect more UV than do matte ones, such as linen, which tend to absorb rather than reflect UV. 

#2 Apply sunscreen frequently.  You should plan to reapply sunscreen every 2 hours. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVB and UVA rays. Children under 6 months should not be exposed to the sun.

avoiding sunburn#3. Bring a form of shade with you to the park, lake,  or beach. A small tent, umbrella or pop-up shade stand tent acts as a great sanctuary and can easily protect you from the sun, especially in combination with layers and or sunscreen.

#4. Limits hours out in the sun. Knowing when to say enough is enough will make your skin extremely happy.

#5. Reflected light, it is still light. Hanging out under a sunshade by the pool, on the boat, or at the beach? Remember the sun can still reach you, layers and/or regular application of sunscreen is still critical to protect your skin from the light reflected off the water.

Avoiding sunburn is key to having happy skin and restful summer evenings. Not only will you be preventing skin cancer, but you will also be avoiding looking like a red tomato and cringing when a friend gives you a hug. Simple steps can help you and your loved ones avoid sunburns and overexposure to the sun.

The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this site!

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.