Stay Sun-Safe This Summer
As summer heats up, it's crucial to keep sun safety top of mind. Embrace Ultraviolet Safety Month with these essential tips to enjoy the sunny season while protecting your skin. Whether you're hitting the beach, enjoying a picnic or simply spending time outdoors, these guidelines will help you stay safe under the sun.
1. Choose the Right Sunscreen
When shopping for sunscreen, opt for cream, gel or stick forms over sprays. Sprays can be flammable, provide uneven coverage and pose inhalation risks. Ensure your sunscreen offers broad-spectrum protection with an SPF of 30 or higher. This will shield you from both UVA rays, which cause skin aging, and UVB rays, which lead to sunburn and increase the risk of skin cancer.
2. Check Your Sunscreen's Expiration Date
Before stepping out for your summer adventures, make sure your sunscreen is still effective. Sunscreen, like medication, can expire and lose its potency. Active ingredients such as oxybenzone, homosalate and zinc oxide typically degrade within three years of production. If your sunscreen has changed color, consistency or if the container shows signs of wear, it's time to replace it.
3. Store Your Sunscreen Properly
To maintain its effectiveness, store your sunscreen in a cool, shaded area. Avoid leaving it in hot places or exposing it to direct sunlight. When you're outdoors, wrap it in a towel or keep it in a shaded spot, and bring it inside after use.
4. Apply Sunscreen Generously
Apply sunscreen liberally to all exposed skin, including commonly missed spots like the ears, back of the neck, scalp, shoulders, hands, feet and the edges of swimsuits. Put it on 15 to 30 minutes before heading outdoors and reapply every two hours, or more frequently if you're swimming or sweating. Remember, no sunscreen is completely waterproof, so reapply after water exposure!
5. Understand UV Exposure
UV rays can penetrate water, increasing exposure intensity, and are reflected off the water’s surface, amplifying overall exposure. This makes it essential to reapply sunscreen after swimming and to cover as much skin as possible with clothing.
6. Know the Meaning of SPF
A high SPF rating indicates the level of protection against UVB rays, but it doesn’t extend the time you can stay in the sun without reapplication. Regular reapplication is necessary to maintain effective protection, even with high SPF sunscreen.
7. Lead by Example
Practicing UV safety not only protects you but also sets a positive example for your family and friends. Enjoy the summer responsibly and stay sun-safe!
Need Help with Sunburn or Other Summer Ailments?
If you do find yourself dealing with sunburn or other summer-related ailments, don't worry! ExpressCare is here to help. Our expert healthcare professionals can provide quick and effective treatment for sunburn, heat exhaustion, insect bites and more. Visit ExpressCare today and stay healthy all summer long!