How can I protect myself from the sun?
May 17th, 2012Summer is a great time to go out and enjoy beaches, parks, and go hiking. Be sure to have sunscreen with SPF (Sun Protection Factor)>15 at all times. Wear wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and stay out of the midday sun. On days when there are no clouds, you may even want to use an umbrella to provide shade. You should always wear a moisturizer for the face that has SPF, as this will prevent premature wrinkles. Even on cloudy days there is a potential for absorbing UVA/UVB rays. Don’t forget to put lip balm with SPF>15 as your lips are very sensitive to the sun. I personally buy many tubes of lip balm with SPF30 and put them in beach bags, back packs, and in jacket pockets so I’m never without them.
Many people are concerned about low vitamin D. In order to absorb vitamin D, you do need sunshine, but 10 minutes of sun on the face and the arms is sufficient. I recommend putting on sunscreen after going out in the sun.
