It’s important to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, especially in the summer when it’s hotter and we spend more time outdoors. According to the American Cancer Society, UV rays are the main cause of the sun’s damaging effects on the skin, even though these rays only make up a small portion of the sun’s rays.
Sunscreen is the most obvious choice for blocking these damaging UV rays. The Federal Drug Administration (FDA) recommends using broad spectrum sunscreens with a minimum SPF value of 15. But even when you slather on the sunscreen, the FDA still says it’s important to limit your exposure to the sun. Some people also have concerns about using sunscreen products made with artificial ingredients. In response, some manufacturers now offer all natural sunscreen products, giving you more options.
In addition to sunscreen, there are also other natural alternatives that can add another layer of protection for your skin. These can also be handy for those times when you forget the sunscreen or run out of it on a blazing summer day.
Here are five ways to protect your skin from the sun naturally. Some you may already know about, but hopefully you’ll find an interesting idea or two that’s new.
1.) Seek the Shade
This may seem like basic common sense, but the very best way to protect your skin from the sun is simply to stay out of it as much as possible. The FDA recommends especially limiting your sun exposure between the hours of 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Also be mindful that small children’s delicate skin is more susceptible to skin damage from the sun than adult skin.
2.) Wear a Hat and Sunglasses
Even if you can’t find a shady spot, you can create your own shade with a broad-brimmed hat that protects your face from the sun. And besides looking cool, sunglasses can also help to protect your face and eyes. Be sure to look for glasses with UV protection built into the lenses.
3.) Wear Clothing that Protects the Skin
Long-sleeved shirts and pants can help protect the skin from the sun, especially light colors that reflect the sun’s rays. You can even buy clothes today that have UV protection built right in. Sun Precautions and Coolibar are just two of many websites that offer this type of clothing. Just Google “clothing UV protection” and you’ll find these and a whole lot more.
4.) Wash Your Clothing in UV Repellent
If you checked out any of the websites that offer UV protective clothing, you’ll notice that they can be expensive. A more affordable option can be to use a UV-repellent laundry aid that washes UV protection right into your own clothing. SunGuard is an example. According to the company’s website, the product stays in clothing through at least 20 washings once it’s been washed in.
5.) Use Natural Oils on the Skin
If you don’t like using artificial ingredients on your skin, you can use natural oils like sesame seed oil or coconut oil to block some sunlight. Just keep in mind you’ll have to greatly limit your sun exposure because sesame seed oil only blocks about 30% of the sun’s UV rays, while coconut oil blocks about 20%.
We Wish You a Happy and Safe Summer!
Located in Waldorf, MD, Adams Crossing offers affordable luxury apartments ranging from two to three bedrooms. Haven’t taken a tour of Adam’s Crossing yet? Schedule a tour with one of our marketing professionals to see why we’re a 2017 Top Rated apartment community through ApartmentRatings!
