Sunscreen should be used as a last resort in favor of these four practical tips to avoid sun exposure.
With the summer months here, whether it’s at a park or one of our state’s popular beaches, we will be spending more time outdoors.
However, the Florida heat can be intense. With that in mind, we would like to share with you five tips to stay safe while enjoying the warm temperatures.
- Camp Out in the Shade
Check your surroundings for shady spots. Take advantage of shade given by trees, overhangs, and buildings. If you’re out in an open space, make your own shad with an umbrella or canopy.
- Dress for Protection
The best protection from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays is clothing. Light-colored, loose-fitting shirts, shorts/pants, and hats with a wide brim are all great options.
- Make Plans Around the Sun’s Schedule
UV rays are most intense when the sun is at a higher angle in the sky, which is generally between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Plan your outdoor activities either early in the morning or in the late afternoon/early evening hours to limit your exposure.
- Protect Your Eyes
You have plenty of ways to protect your skin from UV rays, but the only way to protect your eyes is by wearing sunglasses. Don’t treat sunglasses as just a convenience to keep you from squinting when it’s too bright; they are essential equipment to protect your eyes because UV rays can cause cataracts.
You should heed the first four tips to avoid the sun’s rays as best as possible. If you must be out in the sun, then it’s time for:
- Put on Sunscreen
Not all sunscreens are created equal. Some offer inadequate protection, while others contain chemicals that haven’t been tested for safety by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The Environmental Working Group has tested thousands of sunscreens and lists the ones they approve here.
By following these guidelines, you’ll be sure to not to regret your time spent in the sunshine this summer.