4 Summer Tips to Protect Your Skin and Body
Simple summer tips to protect your skin and body this summer season. Learn the importance of using sunscreen, exercising early in the day, and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Be smart and enjoy a healthy summer!
HEALTH SMARTSUMMER SERIES
Val Salinas
5/28/20262 min read
Memorial Weekend has passed, and that means summer has officially kicked off! With warm temperatures, sunny days, and fun beach trips ahead, it is the perfect time for outdoor activities.
Just remember to take care of your BODY, as we spend more time under the sun!
Did you know that the sun's rays are stronger during the summer? Stronger rays lead to more easily sunburns and cause more damage to our skin. It is important to remember that anyone can develop skin cancer, so taking care of your skin in the sun is essential!
People with blonde or red hair, light skin, and blue eyes sunburn easily and have a higher risk of skin cancer. In contrast, those with dark hair and skin are less likely to develop skin cancer, but anyone can potentially get it, regardless of skin color.
Here are some easy tips to help you protect your skin and body this season. Have a fabulous summer!
Outdoor Activities
The intensity of UV rays is highest between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when the sun is at its peak, minimizing the distance those rays travel through the atmosphere.
To avoid the strongest UV rays, schedule your activities and workouts for early morning or late evening. If you need to be outside during peak hours, applying a generous amount of sunscreen is crucial to protect your skin from sunburn.
Sunscreen
Wearing sunscreen year-round is important for protecting your skin. And wearing sunscreen, especially during the summer when UV radiation is at its strongest due to the sun's direct angle.
When choosing a sunscreen, opt for one with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least SPF 30 or stronger. A higher SPF offers better protection, giving your skin the defense it needs against harmful UV rays.
Be proactive: apply a generous amount of sunscreen to all exposed skin—this includes your face, neck, ears, nose, hands, and legs—before heading outdoors. And do not forget to reapply after exercising, sweating heavily, swimming, or spending extended periods in the sun.
Your skin deserves this extra care!
Drink Plenty of H20
Keeping our bodies hydrated is critical during the summer because our body temperature rises more quickly with high heat and humidity. Add exercise or other outdoor activities, and body water loss is accelerated through sweat. Sweating is important because it is our body's way of preventing overheating.
Most people do not consume the daily recommended amount of water. Drinking plenty of water and at least 64 ounces daily can help reduce your risk of experiencing a summer heat-related illness. So, increase your water intake and make a smart choice!
Summer is here. Stay smart and safeguard your health!
4 Things to remember after reading my post.
Make sure you are drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Do not forget the sunscreen, and try to avoid being out in the sun between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Give your body time to adjust to the hotter temperatures, and exercising early in the morning is a great way to do that!
Wearing loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes can keep you feeling cool and comfortable all summer long.
Enjoy the sunshine!