6 Sun Safety Tips That May Surprise You!

Although we are nearing the end of summer, it’s never too late to think about sun protection! To make sure that everyone is “covered” or protected from the harmful rays, whether they are having a beach or pool day, running errands, or just playing in the backyard is important.

Here are 6 Sun Safety Tips That May Surprise You! Sunscreen isn’t your only defense against Ultraviolet rays!

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1. Sunscreen Should Be Broad Spectrum

I think we’ve all heard that we should apply sunscreen daily. We should also apply it before we go out in the sun and then re-apply it every 2 hours when we are playing in the sun or swimming. But, what everyone doesn’t know is that it’s really important to buy sunscreen that protects from BOTH UVA and UVB rays.

In other words, it should be labeled “broad spectrum” sunscreen. The UVB, or burning rays, are, what the SPF refers to. Most dermatologists recommend a minimum of a SPF of 30 daily and 50 SPF in the summer. The UVA rays don’t burn; they cause premature aging, so we need protection from those rays, too!

2. The Shade Doesn’t Block All Ultraviolet Rays, But It Is Your Friend!

Sitting in the shade isn’t a fool proof way to stay safe from the sun’s harmful rays, but it does help. You can cut your UV exposure by 60 percent by sitting in the shade (rather than in the sun).

Be especially mindful of protecting your skin from UV rays between 10 am and 4 pm, by the way. If you are heading to the beach or an area without shade, bring your own, like a beach umbrella!

3. Clothing Can And Does Protect Us From The Sun

Rash guards are a great way to protect your skin from the sun because they are made out of UPF (Ultraviolet Protection by Fabric) material that is lightweight, dries quickly and is protective.

There are even everyday wearable fabrics available that are made with colorless dyes that filter UV light and labeled with a UPF factor that are great options.

You can also treat your regular clothing with laundry detergents that will add a layer of UV protection to your threads.

4. Your Shades Are Not Just To Keep You From Squinting

Wearing sunglasses that have UVA and UVB filtered lenses are just plain smart because they protect your eyes from UV rays. Eyewear also keeps you from squinting and causing premature lines around your eyes.

5. Layer Your Lips

Your lips need protection, too. Layer lip balm with a SPF of at least 30 on your smackers hourly when you are out in the sun!

6. Don’t Forget Your Hat

Get this:  One third of all skin cancers occur above the neck. Wow, right? That means wearing a hat to protect your scalp, face, neck and ears is so important.

They make hats out of UPF material, so find one made out of protective material that covers your head and ears. If you can find one that protects your neck, too, you are in really good shape.

I have more ideas for summer hacks here…

You Won’t Believe What We Always Take To The Beach (Beach Hacks)

10 Summer Kitchen Gadgets You Never Knew You Needed

Hope these summer tips help you to have a fun and fabulous summer.  I’d love to hear from you.  Add your summer tips and tricks in the comments below.

Do you have any sunscreen tips I’ve missed?

Promoting creative women through their tutorials and products. ~ Laurie {a.k.a. the Tip Junkie}

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