The likelihood of acquiring skin cancer increases as one ages. It is critical to protect yourself and your older loved ones from sun damage. While summer is the perfect time to relax on the beach and sunbathe, it is important to protect yourself from harmful rays at the same time. Excessive time spent outside without sufficient sun protection can result in dehydration, sunburn, and even skin cancer. Follow these sunbathing tips.
Hydrate Yourself
It is important to hydrate yourself when you are sunbathing. Avoid alcohol because it is dehydrating, and you want your skin to be as moisturized as possible after a day on the beach. Dry, dehydrated skin might get wrinkled as it tans. Drink lots of water throughout the day to keep yourself hydrated.
Go Under Shade
When spending time outside, try to find a shady area, such as on a covered porch or beneath a tree. Reduce direct sun exposure during times when the sun is at its brightest. Shade provides extra protection, so take frequent breaks to enable your skin to escape the sun’s rays. Cover up with clothing – while UV light may permeate clothing, it can also act as a screen.
Do you want to avoid the sun yet still work on your tan? The good news is that you can still obtain a golden glow when sitting in the shade since the sun’s UV rays will be bouncing off your surroundings onto your skin. Just remember to keep your sunscreen topped up since you can still get sunburned in the shade.
Put on Protective Clothing
Clothing and accessories can provide sun protection. Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats keep the light off your face. Sunglasses are frequently meant to shield your eyes from UV damage, which might result in cataracts. A sunhat is also perfect for protecting the sensitive skin on your scalp from sunburn. Wear long-sleeved shirts and slacks for extra protection if the weather isn’t too hot.
Apply Sunscreen
Apply sunscreen with wide spectrum protection and a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 before going outside. SPF 30 sunscreen will protect your skin from sunburn, while broad-spectrum protection will protect you from all sorts of solar radiation. For optimum protection, reapply every two hours.
Tan Gradually
Resist the allure of excessive tanning. Not only will your tan stay longer, but you’ll also reduce your chance of skin cancer, which is higher in persons who have intense, intermittent exposure rather than those who spend the majority of their time outside. The way forward is to start small and grow up gradually. To get an even tan from the start, use a body exfoliant prior to tanning.
Choose Discovery Village At Sarasota Bay
Discovery Village At Sarasota Bay provides individualized care, a stress-free living environment, and plenty of lifestyle and wellness programs. We offer senior living options that are tailored to each individual’s requirements, including senior independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Feel free to schedule a tour around our community today.