The best time of the year is finally here, and many of us are already looking forward to cooler temperatures. And as much as we all love the crisp breeze and the warm sunny embrace, it is still harmful outside. Seems a little unfair? Fret not! We have just the right tips for you to have a gala time in the autumn sun.
Being safe in the sun is still as important in fall as it is in summer Sunburns can still happen, but there are steps you can take to avoid them. UV rays from the sun are not just dangerous for your skin; they also increase your risk of skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in America and affects more than one million people each year. If you want to make sure that you’re not one of those 600-something thousand Americans who will get diagnosed with skin cancer this year, then follow these tips.
Wear the right sunscreen
The best sunscreens are those with a high SPF and broad-spectrum coverage. Use sunscreen liberally all over the body including the face and neck area but try not to rub too hard into facial areas because rubbing off some may cause irritation/burning sensation on the skin if rubbed too hard so just apply enough sunscreen all over the face but don’t put too much else on after applying lotion because this could result in oily look.
It should be applied 15 minutes before going outside and reapplied every 2 hours, or as needed. If you’re using a spray sunscreen, avoid using it on children under 6 months old because they can inhale the product through their lungs.
Chances are, you will spend more time in direct sunlight, so wear clothing that has UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) ratings of at least 50 or higher—the higher the number, the more protection it offers against UV rays.
Don’t be fooled by cloud cover
Don’t be fooled by cloud cover. While it may look like you’re safe from the sun’s rays, clouds reflect sunlight and can still reach the earth. This means that even though there may be some sky above you if there’s enough cloud cover—and there is in most places during autumn—UV rays will still be reaching your skin.
Clouds block about 20% of UV radiation from passing through them; however, this doesn’t mean that if you are under a thick layer of clouds, no UV light reaches your body. In fact, studies have shown that even though we think we are protected when we are under thick clouds (or even rain), our bodies still absorb some UV light while they pass through these layers!
Wear UV-protective clothing
- Wear a hat with a wide brim. Sun rays are intense, so you need to protect your face and eyes from the sun’s rays. A wide-brimmed hat will help keep you cool and comfortable as you work or play outside.
- Wear UV-protective clothing. The best way to stay safe in the autumn sun is by wearing protective clothing that blocks out harmful UV rays while still allowing your skin to breathe! You can wear long sleeves and pants, sunglasses (with UV protection), gloves (to protect against burns), or even an all-in-one sunblock lotion if it’s hot enough outside!
- You must cover up as much as possible; keep your skin covered whenever possible by wearing long sleeves and pants; limit how much time you spend outside during peak sun hours; use an umbrella when possible; stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day (it’s equally important to stay hydrated during no so hot weather);
Make use of shade
Shade is a good thing. Whether you’re in the mood for it or not, there are certain places that offer it to you.
- Even if the autumn sun tempts you, you should remain in the shade, consider finding a porch or tree on your property that can help keep you cool and provide some relief from the sun. If this isn’t an option, look around at what’s available: maybe even try talking to your neighbors about gathering together for some gazebo time once in a while.
- In addition to the shade provided by trees outside of houses (which is recommended), there are many other ways to get some valuable time under umbrellas or parasols these days—including any beach near where you live.
Sunburn Drink
This product works like magic! If you want to truly enjoy the sun without the sunburn worry, get your hands on sunburn drink. It is an all-natural beverage formulated with organic ingredients and essential nutrients; making it safe for kids to consume. It heals the skin from within and shields it from the outside. Make sure to drink before and after sun exposure for double protection. Sunburn drink is a foolproof way to beat the harmful UV rays all year round.
Avoid tanning beds
Now that sunbathing will be at an all-time low, people switch to artificial tanning methods. Tanning beds, tanning booths, sun lamps, and other forms of self-tanning are not any safer than the sun. They also have their own health risks.
Sunlamps can cause skin damage and increase your risk for melanoma (the most deadly form of skin cancer). UV lights aren’t any better than sunlight: they emit UVA and UVB rays that can lead to premature wrinkling and skin aging at any age.
If you must use a tanning bed or lamp make sure you don’t exceed the maximum time limit set by your healthcare provider — especially if you’re pregnant or have anemia or another condition that may be exacerbated by prolonged exposure to UV radiation.
Conclusion
We hope you found these tips helpful in your quest for the perfect sunny times during autumn. Remember, sun safety is still important in fall as it is in summer! Be sure to wear sunscreen, stay out of the midday glare and keep shade close by for when the sun starts shining again. With this knowledge at hand (and maybe a little good luck), you’ll be able to enjoy your next trip to the beach, park, or pool with confidence.
