Sunburns or Melanoma? Say No More 9 Tips to Protect Your Skin from the

Cecilia Wong, 5th & Glow — 25 Sep 2023

Sunburns or Melanoma? Say No More
9 Tips to Protect Your Skin from the Summer Sun

The summer sun is a beautiful thing, but it can also be dangerous. Overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can cause sunburn, premature skin aging, and even skin cancer. That's why it's important to take steps to protect your skin from the sun, especially during the summer months.

Here are some top tips for protecting your skin from the summer sun:

1. Wear sunscreen every day, even on cloudy days

87% of the sun’s rays can penetrate right through clouds! That’s why it's important to wear sunscreen even on cloudy days.

Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and broad-spectrum protection, which means it protects against both UVA and UVB rays.

Apply sunscreen liberally to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, hands, and feet.

Reapply sunscreen frequently, at least every two hours, or more often if you're sweating or swimming.

2. Wear protective clothing

In addition to sunscreen, wearing protective clothing is another important way to protect your skin from the sun.

Choose loose-fitting, light-colored clothing made from natural fabrics, such as cotton or linen.

Avoid wearing tight-fitting or dark-colored clothing, as these materials can trap heat and make you sweat more.

Hats with a wide brim and sunglasses with UV protection are also important for protecting your skin from the sun.

3. Seek shade when possible

The strongest UV rays are from 10am to 4pm, so it's best to avoid being in the sun during these hours if possible.

If you do have to be outside during these hours, seek shade under a tree or umbrella, and be sure to apply sunscreen often.

4. Limit your alcohol consumption

Alcohol can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it's best to limit your alcohol consumption when you're spending time outdoors.

5. Drink plenty of fluids

It's important to stay hydrated, especially when you're spending time in the sun. Drinking plenty of fluids will help your body stay cool and prevent dehydration.

And if you get a sunburn, you are even more likely to become severely dehydrated. This is because your sunburn draws fluid to your skin’s surface to heal.

6. Eat a healthy diet

Eating a healthy diet can help keep your skin healthy and protect it from the sun. Make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

7. Use a self-tanner instead of tanning beds

Tanning beds emit UV radiation, which can damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. If you want to achieve a tanned look, use a self-tanner instead of a tanning bed.

8. Get regular skin checks

The best way to detect skin cancer early is to get regular skin checks from a dermatologist.

During a skin check, your dermatologist will look for any changes in your skin, such as moles, freckles, or growths. If they find anything suspicious, they will remove it for testing.

9. Be sure children know about sun safety

Make sure your children or grandchildren know the importance of wearing sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade. You should also limit their time in the sun, especially during the peak hours of 10am to 4pm.

By following these tips, you can help protect your skin from the summer sun and reduce your risk of skin cancer.