How come most people find summer time as the best time of the year? Maybe because the scorching heat it brings is also coupled with thoughts about trips to beautiful beaches, sizzling barbecue nights and fun outdoor night camps. However, the sun’s rays not only bring joy among children, families, men and women, especially those who always love to spend time doing outdoor activities. But, summer time also increases anyone’s risk for skin cancer, dehydration, heat stroke and dry skin. The good news is that one can certainly avoid being affected by the sun’s extreme heat during summer.
For as long as you follow the following safety tips, you can enjoy this season without worrying about the threats that the UV rays of the sun brings.
Wear Eye Protection
Although you will most likely find yourself wearing a wide brimmed hat when under the sun, you will still need a good pair of sunglasses not just to complement it fashion-wise. The guys from activemyhome. recommend the use of dark, large sunglasses for optimum protection. Don’t just opt for pricey sunglasses that only serve to make you look good, but does not provide enough eye protection from the sun. If you will be spending more days out in the sun this summer, might as well buy different sunglasses in bulk so you won’t have to worry about finding one that perfectly matches your outfit for the day. These sunglasses should be large enough to protect the entire eyes and prevent the sun’s rays from penetrating the eyes from the sides of the glasses. Be keen about choosing those pairs that indicate 99 or 100 percent eye protection from UVA and UVB rays.
Use the Right Clothes
Your clothes will serve as your most important protection against the heat of the sun. This is why when choosing what type of clothes to wear, opt for ones that not only look good. Choose clothes that have UPF or Ultraviolet Protection Factor. Your clothes should be made from fabrics that have UPF 50. This would mean that such a fabric is capable of blocking as much as 98 percent of the sun’s rays while allowing only 2 percent of it to penetrate your skin. This translates to a significant protection from the sun’s rays. Keep in mind that a Seal of Recommendation from The Skin Cancer Foundation requires fabrics to have at least UPF 30 to ensure a significant amount of skin protection against skin cancer.
Protect Your Skin
Protect your skin against damage caused by the sun’s harmful rays by using an effective sunscreen lotion. The sun’s UVB and UVA rays can increase one’s risk for skin cancer. However, many people make the mistake of not applying enough sunscreen lotion. The Cancer Council of Australia suggests that one should apply at least a teaspoon of sunscreen on each limb, while the neck and facial area may have at least one half teaspoon to ensure sun protection. If you’re living in the United Kingdom, opt for a lotion that has a sun protection factor of 50. If you’re in a country with hotter climates, look for a sunscreen with a protection factor that is higher than 50. It is also wise to buy one that has broad-spectrum protection which protects one from both UVB and UVA rays.
Limit Sun Exposure
Try to plan your outdoor activities at times when the sun is not at its strongest. As much as possible, avoid sun exposure from 10 am to 4 pm. But, if the activity requires exposure within these hours, try to limit the number of hours. It is also best to look for a place where there’s plenty of trees that will serve as your shade. If you will be at the beach, don’t forget to bring beach umbrella. Lunch breaks should be spent indoors and schedule your nap hours during noon time so you won’t have to worry about being exposed to the sun at peak hours.
Steer Clear From Heat Stroke
Our bodies have been created with an innate ability to regulate its temperature, which manifests through sweating when exposed to too much heat. But, heat exhaustion and heat stroke can happen so fast and before you know it you’ve already collapsed! If you are looking to spend more days under the heat of the sun this summer, you should be aware of the tell tale signs and symptoms of heat stroke. Some of these include sweating, intense thirst, headache, dry tongue, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, muscle cramps and vomiting. Infants, young children, overweight individuals, people aged 65 and older and those who are suffering from a chronic medical condition are all at high risk for heat stroke. But you can prevent this from happening by avoiding sugary and caffeinated drinks because these are diuretics that may make your body lose more water. Drink plenty of plain water. Don’t forget as well to wear large hats or summer umbrellas so your skin won’t be directly exposed to the sun’s UV rays.
Keep Rehydrating Your Body
Drinking lots of plain water is one of the best ways to stay hydrated this summer. But, it is also important that you keep tabs on how much you sweat and how much water your body exactly needs. One way to determine if you’ve been hydrating your body well is to check the color of your urine. If your urine is clear or pale yellow, it means you are properly hydrated. But, a dark-colored urine would mean your body is asking for more water. Aside from caffeine, it is best to also avoid drinking alcoholic drinks as these may also act as a diuretic. Opt for sports drinks sparingly, especially those that contain high amounts of sugar.
It is crucial for people to be vigilant about their skin, sun exposure and sun protection especially during summer time. It is never a bad idea to enjoy the beaches or to play outdoor sports this summer. But, be watchful for any signs of skin problems that may trigger the development of skin cancer. Stay safe and protected. Always follow the tips mentioned in this article.