Maximize Your Fun in the Sun With These 4 Tips

Don’t let the summer sun take you by surprise! Be prepared before you head into the heat with these simple tips.

1. Wear sunscreen. We’ve all heard it a million times, but the best way to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays is to wear sunscreen. Wear a mineral-based product that offers UVA and UVB protection and has a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Reapply your sunscreen at least every two hours, especially if you are sweating a lot or spending time in the water.
2. Dress for success. Before going outside, put on your favorite pair of polarized, UVA/UVB blocking sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. Exposure to UV light can speed up cataract formation and macular degeneration in your eyes, damaging your vision down the road. Consider wearing a UV protective shirt for additional protection.
3. Hydrate. Drink water 15 to 20 minutes before going outside and continue to sip cool fluids while in the heat. You lose water from your body when you sweat, so staying properly hydrated when outside in the heat is critical. If your lips or mouth feel dry, take a break in the shade and focus more on hydration.
4. Avoid peak hours. UV rays are at their strongest from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. If possible, avoid direct sunlight during this time. Remember, UV rays can be just as strong on a cloudy day. Enjoy your fun in the sun during the morning or evening hours.

Too Much Fun in the Sun – How To Treat a Sunburn 

What about the times that you forget to apply or re-apply sunscreen and end up with a dreaded sunburn? First, get out of the sunlight and avoid the sun until the sunburn heals. Then, you can try to ease the pain of the burn while it is healing by:

• Taking a cool bath or soaking the skin with a cool towel.
• Applying moisturizer or after-sun cream like aloe vera.
• Taking over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen.
• Drinking extra water to prevent dehydration.
• Avoid scratching areas that itch and picking at any dry skin.

A severe burn may require additional attention and care from a healthcare professional. Brian Snyder, certified nurse practitioner (CNP) at ProMedica Urgent Care – Perrysburg, offers advice on when to seek additional care: “Sunburns that are flat, red and painful are considered first-degree burns. Any burn that blisters is considered a second-degree burn. All second-degree burns should be evaluated by a healthcare provider. If blisters form, don’t pop them intentionally.”

Contact your primary care provider or visit an urgent care location if you are concerned about a severe sunburn or if symptoms don’t improve within a few days.