This time of year all we want to do is be outdoors and enjoy the nice weather. Today, we know so much more about the sun and its effects on the human body, namely our skin. So there is no reason to head out for fun and not take the necessary steps to protect your health!

Always wear sunscreen when you head out. How protective it is depends on the SPF (sun protection factor). The higher the number means the fewer UVA and UVB rays are getting through that screen and penetrating your skin.

Cover your face when outside. On the beach, wear wide-brimmed hats and swimsuit cover-ups that extend down your arms and legs. The skin on the face is very delicate and can be damaged even easier than the rest of the body. For babies, completely cover them in the sun to prevent burns.

Reapply sunscreen as needed when swimming. If you are on the beach playing sports or resting, reapply sunscreen every two hours. If you are in the pool or ocean, reapply sunscreen when you get out for maximum protection. Use waterproof sunscreen when you are going to be in the water.

Stay hydrated. Skin is in its best protective mode when it is well moisturized. Part of that moisture comes from bringing in fluids to replace what we lose through sweat. Always carry bottled water with you. Cold water is absorbed better into the cells than warm water.

Protect your eyes with sunglasses. Your eyewear needs to have UVA and UVB protection so your retinas aren’t damaged by the sunlight. If you are playing sports or just lying on the beach, eyewear is needed.

If your headed out with the purpose of getting a tan here is some info about outdoor vs. indoor lotions. It is not a good Idea to use indoor lotions  outside of a tanning bed. Indoor tanning lotions usually don’t contain SPF.You will have no sun protection outdoors. Outdoor UV rays can vary daily even hourly in intensity.  It is recommended that you use a SPF lotion while tanning outdoors.Outdoor tanning lotions are not recommended for indoor use, as they can cause a film on the acrylic on a tanning bed and inhibit the tanning process.