Here at Contemporary Health Center, our mission is to help you look and feel your best. From sunburn and age spots to more serious conditions like melanoma or carcinoma, overexposure to the sun can be detrimental to your body. With summer finally in full-swing, we wanted to look at a few ways you can keep yourself looking and feeling your best as you enjoy the sunny months!
Best Face Forward
Even if you’re not heading out for an all-day adventure in the great outdoors, summertime means higher levels of UV rays that can damage your skin. In fact, short walks to lunch or even running errands can put you at risk for too much sun exposure.
Adding a layer of sunscreen or UV-protecting lotion to your morning routine is a great way to protect your face from getting too much sun. And don’t forget your lips! Pick up a lipstick or lip balm with an SPF rating of 10-15 for an extra measure of protection.
Splish, Splash
The summer months are prime time for water activities. Whether you’re spending time on the water or in it, hydration is especially important when it’s warm outside. In addition to needing a regular daily intake of water, you’ll need to ramp-up your hydration when you’re busy with anything outside.
Remember to bring along a few bottles of water for a long boat trip, or fill a bottle before you head to the pool. Try your best to stay ahead of thirst to avoid the risk of dehydration. Water can come from food, as well. Leafy greens, cucumbers and berries are all high in water content. In fact, watermelon doesn’t get its name from just anywhere. The red, juicy, summertime fruit is actually 91% water so it makes a great addition to your cooler for a refreshing treat that keeps you hydrated.
Protect Yourself
Now, applying sunscreen may sound like a given for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, but be sure you’re applying it correctly. Like most skin products, sunscreen is most effective when given a chance to be slightly absorbed by your skin. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before you head outdoors. This way, you’re less likely to sweat sunscreen away.
Another important factor to mention is overall sun protection factor (SPF) rating of your sunscreen. If you have fair or sensitive skin, it’s a good idea to get sunscreen with an SPF of 25 or above and remember to reapply at least every two hours.
Decent Exposure
When planning outdoor outings or events, be conscious of when you’ll be out, what you’ll be doing, and for how long you’ll be exposed to the summertime rays. The sun’s most harmful rays come down between 10am and 2pm in most parts of the world. An early morning trip to the beach is a great way to stay ahead of the most intense UV exposure.
Your clothing choices can do a lot to help keep you cool, as well. Lighter colors tend to reflect more of the sun’s rays as darker colors will absorb more UV rays. Choose an outfit with plenty of whites and brighter colors to help you stay cool and sunburn-free.
