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10 Tips to Protect Yourself From the Sun

Introduction

Summer is finally here, and that means it’s time to head outdoors and enjoy the sun! But before you do, make sure to protect yourself from the  harmful effects of UV radiation, which can cause everything from sunburns to skin cancer. From all your Bryn Mawr dermatologists, here are our top tips on sun protection for staying safe this season.

While this article spells out some important information about sun protection, and we highly recommend you read the full article, here are the key points we will focus on:

Table of Contents

Sun Protection

How to Protect Yourself From The Sun

At Bryn Mawr Dermatology, we are here to help you reduce and prevent sun damage. Keep reading for 11 tips to protect your skin from the sun.

1. Wear Sunscreen

Wearing sunscreen is one of the most important things you can do to protect yourself from the sun. Be sure to choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and apply it generously to all exposed skin. Remember to reapply every two hours, or more often if you are sweating or swimming. Our personal SPF recommendations include:

• EltaMD UV Clear SPF 46: This oil-free susnscreen helps calm and protect sensitive skin types and those prone to acne, rosacea and discoloration. It contains niacinamide (vitamin B3), hyaluronic acid and lactic acid to promote skin health. Very lightweight and silky, it may be worn with makeup or alone. Choose between an untinted or lightly tinted formula!

• Neocutis Journée Riche: A luxuriously hydrating day cream that provides four benefits in one: skin revitalization, anti-oxidant care, broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection (SPF 30) and lasting hydration.

2. Don't Forget to Protect Your Lips!

Your lips are just as susceptible to sun damage as the rest of your skin, so be sure to apply a lip balm or Chapstick that contains SPF on a regular basis. You should also reapply these products after swimming or sweating. Our personal favorite is:

• Coola Mineral Liplux Organic Tinted Lip Balm Sunscreen (SPF 30): Take your pick from our tinted mineral SPF 30 lip treatments. Each SPF lip balm adds a hint of natural-looking tint while protecting your pout. Infused with organic cupuaçu butter and mongongo oil, these lip balms smooth and nourish to help keep lips healthy, plump, and youthful-looking.

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3. Check the UV Index

Before you spend any time in the sun, be sure to check the UV index for your area. The UV index is a scale that ranges from 0 to 11, with 0 being the lowest and 11 being the highest. The higher the number, the more intense the UV radiation will be.

For example, it takes 60 minutes to burn with a low UV index of 0 to 2, but only 10 minutes to burn with a high UV index of 11. So if the UV index is high, be sure to take extra precautions to protect yourself! You can check the UV index for your area by visiting the Environmental Protection Agency’s website.

4. Limit Your Time in the Sun Between 10am and 4pm

Even if you’re wearing sunscreen and staying in the shade, it’s important to limit your time in the sun. The best way to do this is to avoid being outdoors during the peak hours of UV radiation, which are between the hours of 10am and 4pm.

5. Swap Tanning for Self-Tanner

If you’re looking for a safe way to get a sun-kissed glow, self-tanner is the way to go. Self-tanner is a cosmetic product that can be applied to the skin to create the appearance of a tan. There are many different types of self-tanner on the market, so be sure to read the instructions carefully before applying. In general, you should choose tanners that are waterproof and have an SPF of at least 15.

6. Cover Up Your Body

In addition to wearing sunscreen, it’s also important to cover up as much skin as possible when you’re going to be spending time in the sun. This means wearing clothing that covers your arms and legs, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face. Cover up essentials include: • Hats: A wide-brimmed hat is your best bet for protecting your face from the sun. Look for a hat with a brim that extends at least three inches all the way around. • Sun protective clothing: There are many brands that offer sun protective clothing, which is clothing made from fabric that has been specially treated to block UV rays. This type of clothing is often used by athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, but it can be worn by anyone who wants extra protection from the sun.

7. Don't Forget the Sunglasses!

Sunglasses are not just a fashion accessory. They’re also an important tool for protecting your eyes. Look for sunglasses that block out at least 99% of UV rays and be sure to wear them every time you go outside, even on cloudy days!

8. Shade Provides Sun Protection

Whenever possible, try to stay in the shade when you’re spending time outdoors. This will help protect your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation. If there is no natural shade available, you can use a sun umbrella to create a shady spot for yourself on the beach or in your backyard.

9. Be Careful Near Water, Sand and Snow

While you may think that water, sand, and snow reflect UV radiation and help protect you from the sun, this is not the case. In fact, these surfaces can increase your risk of sunburn because they reflect UV radiation back up at you. Be sure to take extra precautions when spending time near these surfaces!

10. Know the Signs of Sunburn

It’s important to know the signs of sunburn so you can act as soon as possible. These signs include redness, pain, swelling, and blistering. If you experience any of these symptoms, get out of the sun immediately and apply cool compresses to the affected area. You can also visit your doctor or dermatologist for more severe sunburns. At Bryn Mawr Dermatology, we can provide you with the treatment you need to heal your sunburn and help prevent future damage.

Schedule an Appointment at Bryn Mawr Dermatology

The best way to prevent sunburn is to take precautions to protect yourself from the sun before you go outdoors. But if you do get sunburned, be sure to take care of your skin and seek medical attention if necessary. By following these tips, you can help keep your skin healthy and safe this summer!

At Bryn Mawr Dermatology, we offer a variety of services to help you protect your skin from the sun, including sunscreen consultations and custom-made sun protection plans. Schedule an appointment or give us a call at (610)-897-7884 to learn more.

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Bryn Mawr Dermatology

Content Review Committee at Bryn Mawr Dermatology

Led by Board Certified Dermatologist, Christine Stanko, MD, FAAD, Bryn Mawr Dermatology incorporates a patient-focused outlook in every decision since we first opened our doors on the Main Line in 2005.
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By: Bryn Mawr Dermatology, Published: May 12, 2022
Medically Reviewed By: Christine Stanko, MD, FAAD – June 25, 2024

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