Nothing beats the feeling of warm sand, sounds of the ocean waves crashing into shore and sunshine when you are out to enjoy the beach with friends and family. Whether you are out shopping or having a day on the beach, being smart on how to care for your body and being mindful of sun safety is extremely important. Lifestyle Holiday Vacation Club gives tips on how to care for your body while enjoying your time on vacation. Here are three easy ways you can enjoy the beach and avoid skin damage.
- Be mindful of shade during peak hours. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends you stay out of the sun from 10AM – 2PM as this is when the sun’s rays are the strongest. Good advice, but this is not always practical when you are on vacation. Use this sun safety strategy and choose your activities accordingly. Schedule kids lunches and naps at the hottest part of the day. If you are going to do any water activities make sure they are done in the morning or later in the afternoon. If you simply cannot avoid being out during those peak hours, then apply sunscreen 30 min before going outdoors.
- This now brings up the type of sunscreen. Choose the right products with the right ingredients. If you are going to be outside in the peak hours know the difference between chemical and physical sunscreen. Physical sunscreen forms a protective barrier that deflects harmful UV rays. Chemical sunscreen on the other hand prevents sunburn by absorbing the sun’s energy. Many products combine both ingredients to give you the best of both worlds. You mainly want formulas that contain Zinc Oxide in a micronized form to avoid looking pasty white.
- Wear sunglasses. The American Academy of Dermatology also recommends wearing long-sleeve shirts, pants, and a hat if possible. But we know that being on the beach that too is not practical, so wearing sunglasses is important. Your skin is not the only part of your body that can get damage from suns harmful rays. Ultraviolet radiation has been known to cause eye problems, especially when you are older. Make sure your kids wear sunglasses that block out 100% of UV radiation. Eye protection and sunscreen go hand in hand during those peak hours so keep that in mind and make sure you always have these with you.
Now that you know how to enjoy the sun and stay safe, you are ready to have a fun filled vacation and enjoy your time on the beach.