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With the warm sun blazing down all throughout the summer, it’s important to know how to stay safe from harmful UV rays. Powerful UV rays cause numerous damaging effects to the human body. Some of these effects include premature aging, skin damage, cataracts, eye damage, and even skin cancer. Although the sun beams may feel good, make sure to follow these guidelines to protect yourself!
Know When to Stay Away
First up, know when to avoid the sun. The strongest rays shine between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. During this time, it’s important to stay out of direct sunlight as much as possible because this is when the most damage happens. Even on cloudy days damage will still occur. It’s also important to remember that outside of these times, the sun is still damaging and powerful.
When there isn’t a big shady tree or roof cover nearby, an umbrella can be used. Even when walking in the sun, carry a sun protection umbrella to keep powerful rays away.
Stay Covered
A great way to stay protected is to cover as much skin as possible. Wearing long sleeves, pants, a wide hat, and sun glasses with 99 to 100 percent protection help to keep your eyes
and skin hidden from harm. When skin might be exposed, make sure to lather up in sunscreen at least 15 minutes prior to going outside. Sunscreen should be no less than SPF 30 in order to be the most helpful. Every 2 hours, it should be reapplied. Reading labels on all products used on your skin helps assure safety as well. Alpha hydroxyl acids (AHA) make the skin more sensitive to the sun so, they should not be in any products used when going out into the sun.
Hydrate
Staying hydrated can be lifesaving on extremely hot days. Water, coconut water, and watermelon are some of the best ways to stay cool and keep fluids in your body. Around half a gallon of water needs to be consumed daily to be fully hydrated. Adding freshly squeezed lemon juice to water helps make it even more hydrating and keeps water from being boring! Drinks such as tea and coffee should be avoided as they cause dehydration.
Skin Exam
Checking your skin regularly for changes in any moles or new spots is key. When something changes, be sure to go to a doctor as soon as possible. The sooner it’s caught, the easier it is to cure. Many dermatologists specialize in fixing sun damage done to the skin. Be sure to look over your skin daily.
By following these guidelines you can enjoy the sun while keeping yourself safe on warm days. Stay safe and enjoy the warm summer!
Thank you to the following resources for assisting in this article:
About Advanced Home Health
Advanced Home Health is a local, family-owned, home health and home care provider located in Western PA, servicing Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, Lawrence, and Washington Counties.
To learn more visit, www.advancedhomehealth.com or call 412-344-4100.