Even though summer hasn’t officially started many people are already heading to the beach and pool. The water is one of the best ways to stay cool during the summer but it also means your skin will be exposed to harmful UVA and UVB rays. Here are a few ways you can protect yourself from these harmful rays:
- Limit your time in the sun, especially between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m., when rays are at their most intense.
- Wear UV protection sunglasses, broad-brimmed hats and protective clothing including Ultraviolet Protection Factor (particularly UPF 30+) clothing.
- Apply about a shotglass full of sunscreen every two hours, and every time you sweat apply it again.
- Look for a “broad spectrum” sunscreen, which will protect you from both UVB and UVA rays. UVB rays cause sunburn and skin inflammation, while UVA rays play a major role in skin aging and wrinkling. Both UVB and UVA rays can cause gene mutations and skin cancer.
- Traditional sunscreen cream will ensure maximum protection, while sprays and towelettes do not.
- The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends not exposing babies less than 6 months to sun. If unavoidable, apply an SPF 15 or higher sunscreen.
- SPF 15 blocks 93% of UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97% and SPF 50 blocks 98%. SPF 15 or higher is recommended.
We wish you all a wonderful sunburn-free summer!
Aqua Sun Ozone, Intl 