Everyone loves soaking up rays on a warm summer day. Whether you’re lounging poolside or enjoying an afternoon hike, the sunshine always seeps its way onto your skin, for better or worse. We all know that too much sun damages our skin and can overheat our bodies, but how do we implement safe sun practices? There are some simple ways to defend yourself from the sun’s negative effects while still enjoying its heat.
National Safe Sun Week is a great time to reflect on how you’re approaching time in the sun. This year’s National Safe Sun Week observance occurs from May 18 through May 25, just in time for Memorial Day festivities. Before partaking in this summer’s sunny activities, learn about how important sun safety is and some helpful tips and products to make sun protection easier.
What is National Safe Sun Week?
National Safe Sun Week was founded in 2021 by MedStar Health to encourage people to shield themselves against the sun as the warmer months begin. This holiday symbolizes the effort it takes to stay safe in the sun, as well as the work done by scientists and doctors to prevent skin cancer.
A significant side effect of high sun exposure is melanoma, a common and severe form of skin cancer. A 2023 study found that one in five Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer before age 70, demonstrating the need for consistent sunscreen use and general skin safety knowledge.
Why is Sun Safety So Important
Other types of skin cancer, such as basal cell carcinomas and squamous cell carcinomas, can still cause major health defects. Although less serious than melanoma, these conditions can lead to unwanted problems, such as patchy skin or bumps.
Outside of skin cancer, intense UV rays can cause the skin to age prematurely. The skin can begin to look leathery and lose its elasticity. Although aging effects are entirely natural, sun exposure accounts for about 90% of visible skin changes. Proper UV protection can mitigate the sun’s damaging effects to keep the skin healthy for longer.
The skin doesn’t only cause problems for our skin. Our eyes can suffer repercussions from harmful UV rays without precautions. Cataracts, degeneration, and other conditions can be offset with protective eyewear with the correct percentage of UV blockage.
Sun Safety Tips
Sunscreen is the most common form of sun defense for our skin. It’s recommended that you wear 15 SPF or higher daily on easily burned areas, like your face and shoulders. Reapplication is also crucial for proper UV protection since sunscreen usually wears off every two hours.
Clothing is another excellent way to shield yourself from the sun. Sunglasses and hats are the go-to options for protecting your eyes and face from harsh sunlight. Even during hotter days, long-sleeved shirts or pants may be worn to safeguard the skin even more. Spending long days working or playing outside can be tough on sensitive skin, so opting for UV-resistant clothing can help alleviate any stress of burns.
Products Picks That Make Sun Safety Simple
Finding products that work for you can make sun protection effortless as the summer approaches. Check out these sun-safety solutions to make your days in the sun sunburn-free.
Glow by Bowmar Nutrition
Glow, a supplement created by Bowman Nutrition, combines clinically studied antioxidants to protect your skin from sun damage while extending your natural tan. Ingredients include Vitamin A, Fern extract, and Lycopene, which all aid in skin regeneration, hydration, and shielding UV rays. This daily supplement allows you to keep your summer glow while keeping your skin healthy and safe.
Everyday Sunscreen
Implementing sunscreen into your daily skincare routine is a simple way to defend your skin against the sun. Some dermatologist-recommended products include the EltaMD UV Sport Body Sunscreen, Blue Lizard Sensitive Face Liquid Sunscreen, and Hero Cosmetics Force Shield Superlight Sunscreen.
UV Protective Clothing from The Root Brands
The Root Brands, a sustainable wellness brand, focuses on giving back to your body and the environment with eco-conscious products. That’s why The Root Brands clothing line, Merci Dupre, creates UV-shielding pieces to cover your skin with ethical materials. The Merci Dupre x Root Leggings are a great option for workouts in the sun, while The Pepper Pack, a 4-pack of baby swaddles, is perfect for protecting your baby’s sensitive skin.
This year, use National Safe Sun Week as a reminder to take care of yourself while under the beaming sun. As much as we love a beach day with friends and family or spending a summer morning on the driving range, the sun’s UV can easily ruin our activities if we don’t take the proper precautions. Don’t miss out on the fantastic summer plans ahead of you, and practice safe sun protection.
