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Just because the sun's rays can be harmful does not mean that you have
to stay away completely. However, if you play outdoor sports, you must
protect your skin. Now for a few smart tips to help you avoid unpleasant
surprises.
 Sunscreen isn't just
for the beach. Apply enough cream each time you play outdoors.
Don't wait until the last minute
to apply your sunscreen. Applying it 30 minutes before exposure to the
sun allows the skin to absorb it fully.
Try not to be lazy on those hazy summer days! Don't be fooled
into thinking that applying sunscreen only once in a day is enough! Reapply
approximately every two hours, right after a dip in the water or after
an intensive and sweaty workout! Yes, reapply even if your sunscreen is
water resistant.
What does SPF
mean?
SPF spells out Sun Protection Factor. It indicates
at what level a sunscreen blocks out UVB rays and helps protect
against sunburns. The higher the SPF, the longer you can tan without
the risk of burning.
For example, if your skin can tolerate being exposed to the sun
for 10 minutes without baking, a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 will
allow you to stay in the sun 150 minutes. Beware! The length of
time you can stay in the sun without reapplying your sunscreen will
be reduced if you apply too little sunscreen, perspire heavily or
go swimming! |
Don't be shy! Slather it on everywhere...your nose, ears, forehead...don't
miss a spot! You should even be applying it under your bathing suit; rays
can get through!
Don't overheat - keep
your body temperature from rising. If you are feeling really hot (after
being in the sun for an hour), find some shade and cool off a bit.
Moisturize! The sun not only burns
your skin, but also dries it out. After a day or even a few hours in the
sun make sure you take the time to moisturize your skin by applying a
good after sun cream liberally to your skin.
For those first sun bathing sessions of the season choose a sunscreen
with an SPF of at least 30 or 45 if you have sensitive skin. Once you
have a good base, you can go with 15 SPF.
Avoid the sun
between noon and 2 P.M., when UV rays are radically more powerful.
Watch those clouds; they're not
so innocent! If you are planning to spend the day outdoors, apply a sunscreen
even if it's cloudy; the sun's rays manage to get through the ozone layer,
sun or no sun.
Several prescription
medications increase the skin's photosensitivity to the sun, making it
easier to burn. Ask your pharmacist about it the next time you pick up
your medication!
Alcohol and sunbathing don't mix!
Consumption can sensitize the skin to the sun's rays. So remember: a sip
of Margarita followed by a splash of sunscreen!
Drink lots of water. Nothing beats
water to fight off dehydration!
1- The dark side of the sun
2- Something to think about
3- Tips for smart tanning
4- What if sunscreen isn't enough?
5- Worried? Go for the self tanners
6- How does it work?
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