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With the increase in the number of cases of skin cancer diagnosed each year, and the emphasis on maintaining a youthful appearance, staying safe in the sun is more important than ever. Here are some tips to keep in mind while enjoying the outdoors.
The sun is at its strongest generally between the hours of 10 am and 2 pm. If you can plan your outdoor activities before or after these peak hours between 10 and 2, all the better.
Burns and skin damage generally occur during the summer months, but keep sun safety in mind all year round. Snow reflects sun just like water does, and you can get quite a raw burn from the combination of wind and sun.
Wear sunscreen for all outdoor activities, whether it’s hiking, boating, swimming or skiing. Any part of you that is exposed and unprotected is at risk.
There are many “rules” about sun exposure that people used to believe, such as brunette women or dark complexioned women don’t burn and that only “fair” people need to watch out. Despite the coloring of, or level of melatonin in one’s body, everyone has to be careful so all races and nationalities need to apply protection.
Start with sunscreen or sun block, which is different than sun tan oil or plain cocoa butter. Look for the SPF (Sun Protection Factor) on the label of the product you are using. SPF ranges from 8 to 15 to 30 and above. These are important to use even if you have a “base tan”. Number 8 SPF will provide minimum protection with numbers going upward in the protection factor, the higher the number the better the protection. Make sure that children are completely covered with a high SPF, and look for products made especially for skin that is in and out of the water. Don’t think that a child (or adult) cannot get burned while in the water. Apply often as directed on the label, especially if swimming and sweating, which is what people usually do at the beach and during other outdoor activities. Don’t forget lips and scalp. There are special balms made with sunscreen that children and adults should wear outdoors. You should protect your head with a hat, the wider the brim the better, and don’t forget sun glasses with sun protection (again, read the label, not all sun glasses protect from the suns’ rays, look for 100% UV (ultraviolet) protection.
Last but not least, know when enough is enough. Be sure to scope out shady shelter during all outdoor activities and drink plenty of water. Be sure to make children take frequent breaks in the shade or indoors to “cool down” and rest while drinking cool fluids slowly. Water and sports drinks, which replenish electrolytes, are much better than soda for this purpose. This will avoid heat stroke, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention. The key to enjoying fun in the sun is to plan ahead and enjoy in moderation.
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