Keeping your skin away from harmful sun damage is one of the easiest things you can do to prevent cancer and keep your skin healthy. Too much sun exposure can lead to wrinkles, loose skin, spotting, and other blemishes.
Of course, lowering the risk of cancer is also a significant benefit of avoiding UV damage.
Few people want to hear they must stay out of the sun to protect their skin.
On the contrary, we all love getting outside for walks, sports, and spending time with friends. In addition, many positive health benefits are associated with being in the sun, like increased vitamin D levels and lower depression rates.
How can you balance getting enough sun with living a fun outdoor lifestyle and protecting your skin from UV damage? Here are some helpful tips to get you started. Use Sunscreen!
By far, the biggest thing you can do to protect your skin from UV damage is to use high-quality sunscreen. Typically, skin health experts recommend using at least SPF30 and going stronger for people with sensitive skin.
Also, do your best to find organic sunscreen without any harmful chemicals. Sometimes places with sensitive ecosystems, like reefs, prohibit certain sunscreens because they can be toxic to the environment.
Now, ask yourself if you want to put that on your skin regularly.
Put the sunscreen on whenever you’re at the beach, and apply in intervals based on the label recommendations. Further, use sunscreen when you’re out at the park, watching a baseball game, or going on a run.
The less exposed you are too strong UV rays, the better.
Wear Appropriate Clothing
Yes, it’s likely more comfortable to wear a bikini or go shirtless at the beach or pool. However, wearing fewer clothes only leaves you open to UV damage. To add protection, wear long-sleeved shirts, hats, sunglasses, and other protective clothing items.
The right clothing lowers the amount of UV damage to your skin, and you can stay outside longer without worrying as much about the sun. Many outdoor clothing manufacturers make shirts, pants, and swimsuits designed to reflect the sun.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Spending time outside at your local park is different than laying out on the beach for three hours in the early afternoon.
Where you are and what time it impacts exposure to UV rays. The most damage is likely when the sun is its strongest, so monitor the local weather to learn when you should avoid being out in the sun.
In addition, sand, water, and light-colored surfaces tend to reflect the sunlight, which bounces back up and onto your skin. Pay attention to where you are, and avoid conditions conducive to more significant UV ray damage.
Protect Your Head & Neck
We’ve already mentioned wearing certain clothing items to avoid UV damage. However, many people miss places like their ears, their head, and the back of their necks. As a result, they get burned where they aren’t covered.
If you’re spending several hours at the beach or other places with strong sun, buy some gear that will keep you safe. For example, invest in some high-quality sunglasses and a hat that will cover your neck.
You can also carry around an umbrella to reflect the sun’s rays. Some companies sell beach tents that stop UV rays from penetrating the top, which could be a good solution for family vacations.
Find Shade
A bit of pre-trip planning will keep you and your loved ones safe from the sun. First, scope out parks and beaches for shady spots where you can take a break from the sun. When you’re not playing in the water, retreat to the shade where you won’t be exposed to constant UV damage.
If necessary, pack a tent or a beach umbrella in case there aren’t any trees or covered tables in the area.
Increase Your Antioxidant Levels
Sun exposure can increase oxidative stress by stimulating free radicals in the body. Antioxidants are the body’s natural way of combating free radicals and can prevent oxidative stress that causes inflammation, skin damage, and slow immune response.
You can add antioxidants by eating certain berries, dairy products, meat, and vegetables.
In addition, Carbon 60 (C60) is a potent antioxidant that may alleviate the oxidative burden. Made from 60 carbon atoms, C60 is a unique molecule that promotes wellness and can positively impact skin vitality.
You can read about C60 supplement reviews and how this supplement can help you on Shopc60. By neutralizing free radicals, you increase overall health and boost the body’s ability to heal itself and prevent inflammation.