Summertime is here, and with it comes warm weather, sunshine and more excuses to get outside and enjoy the fresh air. Between swimming, hiking, picnicking and relaxing on a lounge chair, there are plenty of different ways to get that healthy dose of vitamin D. As great as the sun can be, however, it can also harm the skin without precautionary measures.
Keep these tips in mind to take care of yourself this summer:
Use sun protection
No matter how badly you want that sun-kissed skin, neglecting to cover up with broad-spectrum sunscreen can increase your risk of burning and even worse, melanoma. The American Cancer Society recommends using protection with at least SPF 30 and reapplying the lotion every two hours.
Seek shade
Taking a break from the sun and seeking shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. — when UV rays are the most powerful — is critical. Continue enjoying the great outdoors by installing Phantom Screens into your outdoor patio space, as they’re designed with UV blockage for an extra layer of protection. That means you can spend more time outside this summer.
Wear protective clothing
Protective clothing is also very effective at keeping the skin safe. Certain types of clothing specifically protect against the sun; precise fabric weight and density can better reflect UV rays instead of absorbing into the skin. If you don’t like to wear layers outside in the heat, a wide-brimmed hat makes an efficient choice.
Stay hydrated
Between direct sunlight and the residual heat, you’re more likely to feel dehydrated when you’re outside enjoying a summer activity. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the best way to keep your body hydrated is to start drinking water before you notice the symptoms of dehydration.