Protecting Yourself From The Ravages of The Sun

With rising rates of skin cancer in many parts of the world, it's becoming more important than ever to protect yourself from the ravages of the sun. Here are some tips to protect yourself from, while also enjoying, the sun.

Clothing

If you want to enjoy the outdoors or the beach, but don't want to be exposed to the sun all day, consider purchasing special clothing. There is special clothing made specifically for sun protection. This clothing is lightweight so it does not keep you warm, yet it protects your skin from the sun's rays. Several makers of sun protection clothing offer apparel including long sleeve shirts, pants and jackets to protect your body, as well as hats designed to protect your head and neck.

Eyewear

Eye protection from the sun is extremely important, as excessive exposure to UV rays can lead to damage to the eye, especially for people with sensitive eyes, children, seniors and anyone who has had eye surgery recently. A good pair of sunglasses will protect the health of your eyes and even help you see better during the harsh light of a bright day. So when you're headed outdoors, don't forget your sunglasses.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is available from many brands in hundreds of preparations. There is a sunscreen product for everyone. Generally, sunscreens are rated according to SPF, which stands for "Sun Protection Factor". Every bottle of sunscreen will have an SPF number, even many lipsticks and make-up products now have SPF ratings. While there is no sunscreen available that blocks out all UV rays, generally the higher the SPF number, the more you are protected. For instance, an SPF rating of 30 will block 97 percent of the sun's UV rays if it is correctly applied. That's another tip to remember, you must apply sunscreen correctly for it to be effective. If you use too little or don't apply it to all areas where your skin will be exposed, then it won't be able to do it's job. A sunscreen product with SPF protection of 50 will effectively block up to 99 percent of UV rays, so look for this rating on any products you purchase, especially if you are buying it for people who are sensitive to the sun.

Physical Protection

Some of the best ways to block the sun's harmful rays is with physical objects. The best of these is an umbrella. You may still enjoy laying out by the pool or the beach, but if you are under an umbrella, you are physically blocking the sun from hitting your skin. A tent, gazebo or other structure can also block the sun's rays effectively.

Sun Tanning Safely

Many people still want to have a nice, healthful looking tan, regardless of the skin cancer danger. These people should consider using sunless tanning products. These lotions and creams applied to the skin once every week or so will dye the most outer layer of your skin. However, this method of tanning is perfectly safe as opposed to laying out in the sun for a few hours to achieve the same effect. The latest innovations in sunless tanning products mean that you can get a beautiful tan without risking skin cancer.

Author Resource: Lydia Quinn writes for PhatSportShades, a leading provider of watersports goggles and performance sports eyewear. Visit us at: http://www.phatsportshades.com

Article From High Profile Articles