The Best Ways to Protect Yourself from the Sun

Protecting yourself from the sun may seem like something you know instinctively, but these days it isn’t as simple as it used to be. 

This is primarily because according to the World Health Organization today, overexposure to the sun brings about harmful effects not only to the skin, but to the eyes and immune system as well. In fact, ultraviolet exposure is the primary cause of premature aging.

So how do you ensure you’re protecting yourself and your family from the sun the right way?

Here are 5 tips for you.

Use 30+ SPF Sunscreen

One of most misleading preconceptions about the use of sunscreen is that applying it means you can stay out in the sun for as long as you’d like. Sadly, this isn’t the case. Sunscreen isn’t meant to prolong your time outdoors in the sun without any other means of sun protection.

According to a recent study by the Cancer Council, many individuals are using sunscreen but do not wear shirts or other protective clothing. This continues to result in sunburn no matter how liberal they apply their sunscreen. Many may not know but tanned skin is already damaged skin.

You may see SPF on several sunscreen and sun protection lotions but what does it really mean?

SPF means sun protection factor and the numbers after it refer to the number of times it promises to give you sun protection.  SPF 30 gives you 30 times the protection of no sunscreen. SPF50 gives you 50 times the protection before you start to burn. Therefore, the higher the SPF the better.

Always apply an SPF30 or higher sunscreen generously 20 minutes before heading out.

It is important to remember though that one application of sunscreen is not enough. For effective sun protection, you have to reapply it many times in the day, at least every couple of hours.

Limit Time in the Midday

According to WHO, the sun’s UV rays are at their strongest from 10am to 4pm. Avoid staying out in the sun too long during these times or avoid the outdoors altogether. If this is unavoidable, make sure to wear adequate clothing and broad-brimmed hats to cover yourself and your skin adequately. Remember that your nose, ears, neck and face need just as much protection as any part of the body. So apply sunscreen on the face not only at the beach but every time you are outdoors and protect yourself from the sun.

Stay in the shade whenever possible during these times and always seek out places that give you complete sun protection.

Wear Protective Clothing

Wearing protective clothing gives you a physical defence against the sun’s UV rays. Nowadays, some fabrics now offer Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) of 30 or greater, which blocks 97% of the sun’s UV rays, similar to SPF30+ protection on sunscreens. Choose these fabric types whenever possible when you expect to stay outdoors for the most part of the day. Also, choose clothes that are closely woven. A recent study also shows that darker colors such as blue or red when applied to cotton fabrics provide better UV absorption.

Put on Sunglasses

Our eyes are extremely sensitive to the sun and so adequate protection for the eyes is essential. Though it is common practice for us to reach for those sunglasses when it is sunny out, experts say it is vital to still wear sunglasses even when it’s cloudy outside. You can minimise up to 98% of ultraviolet radiation exposure to your eyes by wearing the right sunglasses. Wearing sunglasses protects the delicate skin around your eyes from sun exposure as well.

When looking for the right sunglasses, ensure they meet the Australian Standard AS 1067. Look for wraparounds and large-framed glasses as they block UV rays and light coming from different angles.

More importantly, sunglasses shouldn’t only be for adults. Find the best sunglasses for your kids as well!

The ChemSave Promise

At ChemSave, we want to make sure you have everything you need to adequately protect yourself from the sun no matter where you are. We are a leading pharmaceutical retailer that specialises in selling health, personal and beauty, vitamins and prescription products directly so you have some peace of mind knowing you have everything you need anywhere, anytime.

Your safety and well-being is important to us. We have the right product selections you need to keep your family well-protected as well.  Contact ChemSave today for a complete selection of your sun protection needs.