Going outside early in the morning is vital for your skin. The sun is an excellent source of Vitamin D – it keeps your skin and bones healthy. The sun can also improve your mood! Ever wonder why when you are outside, you feel energized and inspired? It’s because of sun exposure but take note that too much sun exposure can lead to skin damage such as sunburns and worse, skin cancer.
Is the sun damaging to your skin?
You see, it’s not the sun that damages or causes sunburn to your skin but the UV or ultraviolet light that the sun produces. These UV rays are not visible to the naked eye and can go deep into your skin and that is where the damage starts. Too much exposure to UV rays can prevent your skin from repairing itself. As a result, your skin looks older, dry and sometimes, it causes sunburn.
Limit your exposure
While you love the summer sun and its warmth, it is important that you know when you should have enough sunlight to get healthy looking skin. Spending too much time in the sun can likely cause your skin to get sun damage like age spots, sunburns, wrinkles and other skin conditions. The best way to protect your skin from sunburn is to limit your time when going out or when in direct sunlight. However, if you have no choice but to go out during the peak time of sunlight, here are some ways to protect your skin from sunburn:
- Use sunscreen every day. When you have to go outside during the peak heat of the sun, don’t forget to apply your sunscreen. In fact, it is advisable to use sunscreen even if it’s cloudy outside.
- Reapply sunscreen often. Make sure you apply sunscreen every two hours. If you are sweating a lot or out for a swim, reapply sunscreen once every hour to give your skin the utmost protection.
- Choose a product that offers sunscreen carefully. Choose a broad spectrum sunscreen to make sure the product is water resistant and offers SPF 30 or higher.
- Do not stay longer in the sun when you are in water or sand. These surfaces can reflect the damaging rays of the sun which can increase your risk of getting sunburn.
- If you can, wear appropriate clothes when outside. Sheer and light long sleeves or pants can provide sun protection while not overheating your body.
- Wear wide brimmed hats. At least 3 inches wide, as it can help protect your face from direct sunlight exposure – it’s like wearing a sunscreen that offers an SPF of 5.
- Wear shades. Supersize shades are recommended as they are big enough to cover the skin around your eyes. Look for sunglasses that provide UV protection.
The summer sun can be harsh on your skin but it doesn’t have to make you feel guilty every time you go out. Knowing how you can protect your skin against UV rays and sunburn can make you feel confident going out.
