More Than Sunscreen

By Donna Stark

We certainly are in the thick of it, aren't we? Those hot, summer temperatures are enough to make us want to stay indoors, but since we've been stuck inside for so long now, many of us are trying to spend as much time in Mother Nature as we can. And that's good! But what isn't good are the potential risks for skin damage. 

It Isn't All About Sunscreen

Before you decide to spend the day cleaning up your yard or lounging by the pool, it is essential that you take the proper precautions to protect your overall health! From extra wrinkles to eye damage to skin cancer, overexposure to the sun's harmful rays can certainly leave its mark. Sunscreen is a must, but if you want even more protection, try the following suggestions.

• Choose the shady spots - Look for the shady spots that Mother Nature provides when you head outdoors or create your own. Buy some umbrellas for your pool, invest in a retractable awning for the backyard patio, and invest in some portable tents for when you are sitting on the sidelines. And don't make the mistake of thinking you are protected from the sun on overcast days! Even if there are clouds in the sky, the sun's rays can still do a lot of damage.
• Moisturize the smart way - Moisturizers are a great choice if you are looking for soft skin, but they can do more if you choose the right ones. Purchasing a moisturizer that contains sunscreen is a great way to protect your skin from the minute you wake up and is especially helpful for those who don't like applying actual sunscreen to their face. And if you want to protect your lips too, remember to apply a lip balm that has an SPF of 15 or higher.
• Make wise clothing choices - You can still protect the most vulnerable parts of your body and be summer-fashionable at the same time! Hats and sunglasses are the perfect accessories during summer and the general rule is the bigger the better! The key idea here is that you want to cover your head, ears, face, and neck so choose those bucket or floppy hats and pull out those big, round sunglasses to wear.

Practicing Skin Safety

Go ahead. Get out of the house and enjoy the outdoors! Just make sure you practice skin safety with the suggestions above. It's the best way to enjoy this fabulous time of the year while also keeping everyone safe, healthy, and happy!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Franklin, Tenn.