The sun is one of the most potent forces on Earth. It gives us light and warmth, but it can also cause severe damage to our skin if we’re not careful. That’s why it’s essential to know how to protect your skin from the sun.
The three main types of UV radiation from the sun are UVA, a longer, more penetrative kind; UVB, which has a shorter wavelength but higher frequency than an individual’s skin pigment can handle comfortably without burning them up on contact (it would take too much energy for this type to do any real damage); finally, there is also UVC, which is the most dangerous of all, but fortunately, it’s blocked by our atmosphere.
So how do you protect your skin from the sun?
Use skin products
You can protect your skin from the sun by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding the midday sun. When choosing a sunscreen, look for one with an SPF of 30 or higher and broad-spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays. It would be best to reapply sunscreen every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
If you’re prone to prickly heat, a few products can help. Aloe vera is a natural cooling agent that can soothe the skin. You can buy an aloe vera gel or cream or extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf.
Another option is witch hazel, a natural astringent that can help reduce inflammation and swelling. You can buy witch hazel in liquid or tonic form or make your own by steeping witch hazel bark in hot water.
You can also opt to use highly-recommended products for prickly heat. These can be in the form of lotion, cream, powder, or sprays. They usually contain ingredients that help reduce itching and irritation, such as menthol, camphor, allantoin, and panthenol. People prone to prickly heat should try to use such products as preventive measures.
Wear protective clothing
Wearing protective clothing is another great way to protect your skin from the sun. Clothing that covers your arms and legs is best, but if you’re going to be in the sun for an extended period, consider a hat or wearing sunglasses.
When choosing protective clothing, make sure it’s made of a fabric that blocks UV rays. Some suitable materials to look for are cotton, linen, and polyester. It would be best if you also looked for clothing with a tight weave, as this will help block more UV radiation.
It’s also essential to choose the right size. Clothing that’s too loose or baggy can let in UV radiation and increase your risk of sunburn. Tight-fitting clothing, on the other hand, will be more effective at blocking UV radiation.
Moreover, a wide-brimmed hat is best, as it will protect your face, neck, and ears from the sun. Sunglasses should have UV protection to protect your eyes from UVA and UVB rays.
An umbrella can also help protect your skin from the sun. Choosing the right size umbrella is essential, as one that’s too small will do little to protect you from the sun. On the other hand, a large umbrella can provide good protection from UVA and UVB rays.
Make sure the fabric of the umbrella is opaque and blocks UV radiation. It would be best if you also looked for an umbrella with a UPF rating of 50 or higher. This will ensure that you’re well protected from the sun.
When using an umbrella, position it, so it shades your face, neck, and shoulders. Avoid sitting in direct sunlight, as this increases your risk of sunburn.
Avoid the midday sun
Finally, it’s essential to avoid the midday sun whenever possible. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 am and 2 pm, so if you can stay indoors or in the shade during those hours, you’ll be doing your skin a favor.
If you can’t avoid the midday sun, wear sunscreen and protective clothing, and stay in the shade as much as possible. Try to limit your exposure to the sun during these hours, as this will help keep your skin safe and healthy.
The sun is essential for life on Earth, but it can also be dangerous if we’re not careful. Ultraviolet radiation from the sun can cause everything from sunburn to skin cancer, so it’s essential to know how to protect yourself. The best way to protect your skin from the sun is to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid being in direct sunlight during peak hours. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy all that the sun has to offer without putting your health at risk.
