What To Know
- Summer is the perfect time to splash around in the pool or hit the beach, but it’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
- If you’re going to be swimming, try to find a shaded area to relax in when you’re not in the water.
- If you’re going to be swimming for a long time, take breaks from the sun every 20-30 minutes.
Summer is the perfect time to splash around in the pool or hit the beach, but it’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Sunburn can cause pain, redness, and peeling, and it can even increase your risk of skin cancer.
Here are some tips on how to avoid sunburn while swimming:
Seek Shade
The best way to avoid sunburn is to stay out of the sun as much as possible. If you’re going to be swimming, try to find a shaded area to relax in when you’re not in the water. You can also use a beach umbrella or canopy to create your own shade.
Wear Protective Clothing
If you can’t avoid the sun, cover up with protective clothing. This includes a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and a long-sleeved shirt and pants. Look for clothing made from tightly woven fabrics that block the sun’s rays.
Apply Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must-have for any outdoor activity, including swimming. Choose a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher. Apply sunscreen to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and hands. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
Take Breaks from the Sun
If you’re going to be swimming for a long time, take breaks from the sun every 20-30 minutes. Get out of the water and cool down in the shade. This will give your skin a chance to recover from the sun’s rays.
Avoid Sunburn During Peak Hours
The sun’s rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm. If you can, avoid swimming during these peak hours. If you must swim during these hours, take extra precautions to protect your skin.
Use a Waterproof Sunscreen
If you’re going to be swimming, use a waterproof sunscreen. Waterproof sunscreens are designed to stay on your skin even when you’re in the water. Reapply waterproof sunscreen every 80 minutes, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
Be Aware of Your Skin Type
Some people are more susceptible to sunburn than others. If you have fair skin, blue eyes, or a family history of skin cancer, you’re more likely to get sunburn. Take extra precautions to protect your skin if you have any of these risk factors.
Final Thoughts: Splash Safely in the Summer Sun
By following these tips, you can avoid sunburn while swimming and enjoy the summer sun safely. Remember to seek shade, wear protective clothing, apply sunscreen, take breaks from the sun, and be aware of your skin type. With a little planning, you can have a fun and sun-safe summer.
What You Need to Learn
Q: What is the best way to apply sunscreen?
A: Apply sunscreen liberally to all exposed skin, including your face, neck, ears, and hands. Rub the sunscreen in thoroughly until it is absorbed.
Q: How often should I reapply sunscreen?
A: Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
Q: What is the difference between broad-spectrum and regular sunscreen?
A: Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects against both UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays cause aging and wrinkles, while UVB rays cause sunburn. Regular sunscreen only protects against UVB rays.
Q: Can I get sunburn on a cloudy day?
A: Yes, you can get sunburn on a cloudy day. The sun’s rays can penetrate clouds, so it’s important to protect your skin even when it’s not sunny.
Q: What should I do if I get sunburn?
A: If you get sunburn, cool your skin with a cold bath or shower. Apply aloe vera gel or calamine lotion to soothe the sunburn. Avoid scratching or peeling the sunburn.
