Ways to Protect Yourself this Summer

by Linda Granadino, posted on 2009-07-24 01:12:34

I know its summer, which means that all I wear are sundresses, tube tops, and shorts. With so much skin showing during the blazing heat, I need to remember to wear sunscreen. I'm pretty blanquita, so I gotta protect myself from the sun because I don't tan… I burn. Here are a few tips to keep your skin safe from the heat this summer:

Use a broad-based sunscreen with UVA and UVB protection with a minimum Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30
Re-apply sunscreen periodically throughout the day, and frequently if you're exercising in the heat.
Reduce your exposure to the sun, (particularly between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.), when the sun's rays are at their peak.
Wear clothing that protects as much skin as possible.
Wear a wide-brimmed hat and wraparound sunglasses with UVA and UVB protection.
Look for shaded areas during outdoor activities.
If you are taking antibiotics or acne medication, be especially cautious because they can increase your risk of sunburn.
If you use self-tanning creams, remember that you must still apply sunscreen. Your skin may be darker, but that doesn't mean you're protected.
Check your daily local forecast for "UV ratings" and cover up accordingly.

These tips aren't just for the blanquitas either. EVERYONE needs to use sunscreen. I don't care how tan or brown you are, your skin is not immune to skin cancer or sun burns. So next time you think about tanning to get that “J-LO glow”, just remember it's your skin burning and sizzling, and not in a good way.

Comments from members 1 comment
I skipped sun safety this weekend and I'm definitely regretting it. I'm already peeling and I got back on Wednesday night :(
- Catherine Arronte

Ways to Protect Yourself this Summer

Comments from members