In the summer most people find themselves outdoors relishing the warm, sunny days by sun tanning. The beaches, swimming pools, parks, campsites, and sporting events are often packed with sun lovers. The warmth of the sun on a beautiful, sunny day will entice many of us to soak up the rays instead of staying indoors. However, it is important to protect your skin while sun bathing.
The sun's ultraviolet rays can cause irreversible damage to your skin if not protected, so taking a few extra steps to avoid a sunburn is mandatory. Below are a few guidelines to avoid destruction of your skin while you are trying to achieve a tan.
1. Use a sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF). The higher the number the better - especially for
fair complexions. It may take longer for you to achieve a tan, but it is always best to obtain a gradual glow to
your skin. A high SPF will prevent a painful sunburn, so apply the lotion on every exposed part of your body. If
you are swimming, you will need to purchase a waterproof sunscreen to avoid reapplication. Even normal
perspiration can remove sunscreen, so a good rule of thumb is to buy waterproof lotion. It is imperative to use
sunscreen on children. Most skin damage and cancers can result from the early years of non-protection.
2. For those who prefer using a tanning bed or a heat lamp to achieve that 'healthy' glow, use a sunscreen as
well. Most importantly, cover your eyelids with moistened cotton balls. The eyes are ultra sensitive to heat
and light. It should not affect your 'tan line' if you use the minimum amount of time in the tanning bed. Never
stay in longer than the required time. As mentioned above, a gradual tan is always better.
3. Normal activity outdoors such as gardening, biking, or walking involves motion, so you aren't actually getting
direct, straight-on sun exposure. Wear a cap and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Apply sunscreen on the
face, top of ears, neck, arms, etc. When gardening, you will notice many people wear a straw hat with a wide
brim. This is wonderful protection against sunburn. A lightweight straw hat allows aeration that will lessen
perspiration versus a solid hat.
Whatever activity draws you out in the summer sun, whether it is work or play, just remember to take a few extra precautions before heading out. It's a win-win situation all the way around.
Author Resource:-
The online project Good Health Today congregates articles of specialists in health in order to give you the best advice in this important area of life. See more at www.goodhealthtoday.net.
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