1. Wear sunscreen
If you’re heading outside, be sure to apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen 30 minutes beforehand, so it can penetrate your skin and get to work. Broad-spectrum means it protects you from both A and B ultraviolet rays, which can cause premature aging and skin cancer.
Also, use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. The higher the number, the better the level of protection. Follow the instructions carefully and be sure to reapply if you’re sweating or in the pool.
2. Watch your time
Ultraviolet rays from the sun can damage your skin in as little as 15 minutes, setting you up for skin cancer down the road. Try to avoid direct sun exposure between 10am-2pm., because that’s when the sun’s rays are the most powerful. If you’re outside during this time, try to find some shade.
3. Choose clothing and accessories wisely
Plan your outfits around the outdoor activities you’ll be doing and how hot and humid it’ll be. If you’re at the beach or pool, be sure to wear a hat to protect your head and face, and wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and the fine skin around them.
If you’re hiking in the woods, wear breathable clothing with long sleeves and pants to protect your arms and legs from scratches, bug bites, and poisonous plants, such as poison ivy. The saying is still true: If you see leaves of three, let them be.
If you’re exercising outdoors, try to get your activity done early in the morning before it gets too hot.
4. Practice healthy habits
Eating a diet full of fruits and vegetables, drinking water, getting enough rest, and quitting smoking can do wonders for your skin. These habits are just as important in the summer as they are the rest of the year.
5. Use self-tanning products
We know this is cheating, but it’s the safest way to get a healthy, summer glow without putting yourself at risk for skin cancer. These products have come a long way from the days of turning skin orange and ruining clothes.
Before you use a new product, test it on a small area of your skin to make sure you don’t have an allergic reaction to it. Then, follow the instructions and wait for the results. You may be pleasantly surprised!
If you end up covered in poison ivy, sunburned, or suffering from itchy bug bites after a day outdoors, we can help get your skin looking and feeling great in no time. To learn more, book an appointment online or over the phone with Ross Bridge Medical Center today.
