Exposing yourself to the scorching sun at the beach during summer is about more than just fun – it also brings risks of ultraviolet rays. This particular radiation leads to blistering, early aging, and cancer. Therefore, how can one enjoy themselves at the seashore without much exposure? These tips will help you avoid harmful sunburns.
Sunscreen: The Best Line of Defense
Preventing your skin from these rays is one of the best choices you can make. Choose a sunscreen with an SPF 30 or higher and apply it generously to all exposed parts of your body at least fifteen minutes before venturing out into the open. Sneaky spots such as ears, neck, and tops of feet must not be ignored! Reapply sunscreen every two hours or so if you tend to swim or perspire heavily. Regular use helps prevent getting scorched by sunlight and long-lasting damage.
Dress Up for Sun Protection
Similarly, clothing could serve as your defensive strategy against ultraviolet rays too. For optimum protection, choose lightweight fabrics made from tightly woven material with a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) of 50+. A wide-brimmed hat covers your face, ears, and neck, whereas sunglasses block harmful rays from reaching your eyes. Go for stylish swimsuits that cover more skin, such as modest bikinis. Protective clothing limits exposure to sunlight, thus reducing UV harm to your skin.
Seek Shade When Sun is Strongest
The sun shines its brightest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.; try as much as possible to find shade within this period. Beach umbrellas or pop-up tents are good options, but remember that even though shade can protect you from burns, UV rays bounce off sand or water. Sunscreen is still necessary, and protective clothes are essential. It saves you from burning under high temperatures, thereby allowing you to enjoy your day at the beach.
Stay Hydrated for Healthy Skin
When dehydrated, your skin is more likely to be damaged by the sun. Drink plenty of water daily to stay hydrated and keep your skin healthy. Avoid alcohol and coffee, particularly before being in the sun. Additionally, fruits and vegetables with high water content assist in keeping you hydrated as well. Proper hydration enables your skin to remain healthy and protects it from UV rays.
Be Cautious About Medication Side Effects
Some drugs make your skin weak against sunlight, thereby easily causing burns from the sun. Common culprits include, among others, some antibiotics, aspirin and ibuprofen over-the-counter painkillers, cough medicines containing amiodarone, prescribed analgesics, or even OTC (over-the-counter) allergy medications. The label should be checked for any photosensitivity effects if one is on medications, or a doctor/pharmacist consulted. In such situations, extra sunscreen along with protective clothing would be useful even on a cloudy day.
Regular Skin Checks: An Ounce of Prevention
In addition to immediately safeguarding against hazards, it is essential that you regularly study your skin for any unusual modifications. Early discovery of cutaneous damage helps prevent grave consequences like skin cancer. Observe for new spots, lumps, or changes in existing ones, such as asymmetry, irregular borders, different shades, or an increase in size. Every year, seek a dermatologist’s advice on the state of your skin, especially if you are a sun worshipper. By keeping tabs on your skin health, potential problems can be identified early and treated effectively, making your swimming experience at the beach a safe one and giving you peace of mind.