Let’s Talk Sun Safety
What is that thing up in sky? It’s so bright!
It’s the sun! It’s back!
It can be very exciting to see it again, but remember how long it’s been since you saw that big beautiful orb?
A while. Just like training or exercising, you need to spend some time increasing your exposure slowly to avoid unnecessary skin damage this summer.
Here are a few
points to help you remember what sun safety looks like:
ClothingOne easy way to avoid overexposure to the sun is to wear more clothing.
We definitely need to remember that not all clothing is 100% sun-proof, especially now that mesh and see-through panels are all the rage!
You’ve probably seen a picture or two of funky tan lines from people who found out the hard way.
SPF clothing is available to buy online from certain stores. But really, you just need to cover up and make sure to use sunscreen on an exposed areas.
SPFWe all know that sunscreen is protection against sun burns. But what SPF is best? Let’s look at what it stands for and how it works.
Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rates the ability of a lotion to protect your skin from UVB rays, the ones that cause sun burns. It is all based on how long an individual can stay in the sun without getting a burnt.
How long you can handle your rays x SPF on the bottle you used = amount of time you can wear that lotion and not look like a lobster.
The important thing to note is that it is an INDIVIDUAL factor that depends on your current exposure to sun in the recent past combined with genetic disposition and skin tone– No two people are going to need to use the same amount of sunscreen!
Oh yea, and the amount you used at the end of last summer? You probably want to double that if it’s been a few months since you got a tan.
The longer your skin has been without sun exposure, the more defense you need.
HydrationIt’s easy to get caught up in a fun day at the beach and forget about staying hydrated. Especially if your elation involves caffeine or alcohol, your need for hydration doubles with every delicious sip!
For every cup of caffeinated or alcoholic beverage you drink you need to match it in water in order to stay properly hydrated.
Are you drinking an espresso?
You’re going to need even MORE water to counter balance that zippy drink.
Water isn’t the only concern for hydration. Electrolytes are necessary nutrients that we lose in sweating and urination.
Sodium and potassium are the major electrolytes lost during sweating, and can easily be replaced through ingestion. Things like coconut water, electrolyte soluble tablets, and sports drinks are all viable options for supplementing these.
We want you to enjoy all the wonderful outdoor activities that summer has to offer. Keeping these sun safety tips in mind will only make your time better!
-Brittney Thornton, Exercise Guru
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