The first step to protecting yourself from sun damage is to invest in quality sunscreen with an SPF rating of 30 or higher. Make sure you apply it generously and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating heavily. If you plan on spending long periods outdoors, wear protective clothing such as hats and sunglasses with UV protection.
You should also avoid being outside during peak times when UV exposure is at its highest usually between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If possible, seek shade whenever you’re outdoors by sitting under umbrellas or large trees with plenty of leaves to provide some natural protection from the sun’s rays.
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help keep your body hydrated while spending time outdoors in hot weather conditions. Staying hydrated helps prevent dehydration which can leave you more vulnerable to harmful UV rays as well as other potential health risks like heat stroke and exhaustion.
If you have fair skin or a history of sunburns, take extra precautions when spending time outside by wearing additional layers like long-sleeve shirts and pants made from fabrics that block out UV rays such as denim or polyester blends treated with a special chemical finish meant for outdoor use. Also, consider using makeup products specifically developed for added protection against UVA/UVB light exposure when exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods of time.
Finally, if you experience any unusual side effects after being exposed to the sun, monitor them closely and contact your doctor immediately. With proper precautions, enjoying fun activities outdoors can be done safely without compromising your health.