The weather is getting warmer, summer is approaching, you're starting to plan trips to the beach and maybe even to island destinations, but you must not forget how dangerous sun damage can be. While laying out and soaking up some rays and vitamin D can be enjoyable, it is also very harmful in the long run.
According to Skincancer.org, skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. One in five Americans will develop skin cancer at some point in their life. While skin cancer is the most extreme effect of sun damage, there are still some minor effects that still aren't pleasant. Down the line, you'll be getting more lines, or wrinkles after years of preventable sun damage. It can also damage your eyes, even leading to slow blindness. Even the most minor effect, a bad sunburn, can at least make your vacation a bit less enjoyable.
Enjoy your vacation in the sun, but be safe and smart about it. Here are a few tips to protect yourself in the sun:
Use sunscreen
This seems like a no-brainer, but there are specific things to look out for when buying sunscreen and a few things to know about applying it.
Buy sunscreen that is at least SPF15 and higher. Look for a sunscreen that offers "broad coverage." This will protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Buy a waterproof sunscreen. Even if you aren't going swimming, sunscreen can rub off with perspiration.
Applying sunscreen once isn't enough. Sunscreen doesn't last all day. It should be applied every 2 hours, and more often if you're swimming. Also, be sure to apply sunscreen everywhere, especially places that are easy to forget such as your ears, eyelids, lips, nose, hands, feet, and the top of your head.
Wear sunglasses.
You may want to splurge on those designer sunglasses to wear during your vacation, but make sure that they are made to block UV rays. This will help protect the skin around your eyes, and the eyes themselves.
Wear a hat
Wear a hat that has a wide brim, preferably one that has a brim that wraps around the whole hat. This will help protect your face, eyes, ears, and scalp.
Cover Up
Wear clothing that will cover large portions of your body such as pants and long-sleeved shirts. Tightly woven fabric will be useful for coverage and dark colors generally provide more protection that light colored clothing.
Use an umbrella
Instead of sitting out in the sun all day, give your skin a break and relax under an umbrella. This will provide more shade and make a hot day a bit cooler.
Avoid direct sun exposure during midday.
UV rays are strongest when the sun is right above you and high in the sky. Try to limit your activity between the hours of 10am and 4pm, when the sun is the strongest.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
