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Summer is right around the corner, so now’s the time to pull out your best sunscreen and protect yourself. We all know how damaging the sun can be, but many people don’t take it seriously enough until it’s too late. It doesn’t matter if you’re 25 or 55; it is always important to protect your skin from the sun as it can prevent skin cancer in the future.
Here are some simple ways to keep your skin protected this summer:
This should be obvious, but it bears repeating. While it’s important to wear sunscreen all year round, it is especially important to wear it every single day in the summer. The sun is at its most intense during the summer months, so it is crucial to protect your skin 24/7. Make sure to wear a sunscreen that has enough SPF (try to go for 30+ or higher) and reapply it throughout the day.
And, while it’s crucial to protect your face, don’t neglect the rest of your body! Put sunscreen on your arms, as you can get sunburned while driving in your car, and always put some on your neck and ears.
The beach and pool are two very popular destinations during the summer, but it’s a good idea to pay attention to how much time you spend near water and sand. Even if you do a good job of putting sunscreen on throughout the day, both water and sand reflect the harmful rays of the sun. This can, in turn, increase your chances of getting a bad sunburn.
If you’re going out for a run or want to spend the day outside with friends, it’s probably smart to put a hat on. Not only will your hair be protected from the elements (bonus!), but it will keep the sun off of your face. Likewise, wearing a hat will protect your head from being exposed to harmful rays. Too many people neglect their scalp in the summer, which can lead to more serious issues down the road.
Certain medications, such as antibiotics or anti-inflammatories, can make you more sensitive to the sun. This is especially important to be aware of in the summer. If you are on special medication, be aware of how much time you spend in the sun.
