How To Really Keep Your Skin Safe From The Sun
Summer has officially begun, and that means it’s time to head outdoors for some serious fun in the sun. You may already be lathering up with sunscreen, and while that is a great start, there are other ways in which your skin may be suffering. Here are some tips on how to stay safe from ultraviolet rays this summer.
Protect your eyes. Sunglasses are meant to protect your eyes, even though you might be wearing them for other reasons (yes, they make you look amazing). But your glamorous shades do a lot more than just that. They also keep your eyes safe from potential risks such as cataracts and macular degeneration. According to Redbook, skin cancer on the eyelids makes up about 10 percent of all skin cancers.
Stay hydrated. Ideally, your skin should have some elasticity to it, and that won’t happen if the sun is soaking it all up. Drinking a lot of water is the best thing you can do, not only to flush out toxins, but also to give your body the moisture it needs.
Avoid scratching those mosquito bites. According to Dr. Neal B. Schultz, a board-certified dermatologist, not only does scratching lead to a possible infection, it also can cause the bite to be more painful. Using a natural ointment, or something like ice and witch hazel might be your best bet.
Use sunscreen, and use it properly. Apply sunscreen every two hours, and even more often if you are spending time in the pool or ocean. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests applying a generous coat to any exposed skin to keep you safe from harmful rays. The Skin Cancer Foundation found that in the U.S., 90 percent of non-melanoma skin cancers are directly linked to the sun’s rays.
During the summer, it becomes even more important to give your body a little extra TLC. Hydrating with cool water can also keep you from experiencing heat exhaustion. With a little extra care (and a lot of sunscreen), you will be ready to hit the beach, the pool, and the trails for some safe, sunny, and outdoors-y fun.