Stay Safe in the Sun!

by Justine Deputy, RN, MSN

It is that time of year again. Off to the beach, the pool, or spending more time outdoors? Remember, you need to protect your skin! The following are ways to protect your skin while outdoors this summer!

1. Safe Sun Hours: Do activities during safe sun hours, before 10 am and after 3 pm.
2. Shade: Stay in the shade by bringing an umbrella to the beach, reading beneath the shade of a tree, or go for a walk, run, or bike on the trails.
3. Wardrobe: Wear clothes that protect your skin where needed, keep a shirt or sundress on at the beach, wear a rash guard at the pool or beach, keep a hat on to protect your head and face, and sport sunglasses to protect your eyes. Some clothing and suits for the outdoors even include UV protection.
4. Sunscreen: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2014) recommends a minimum SPF of 15 for exposed skin. Remember to reapply after two hours or after swimming (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2014).
   1. Here are some brands of sunscreen recommended by Birth Center clients: Badger, Thinkbaby, and Blue Lizard

Make these tips part of your routine to enjoy the outdoors this summer!

Reference
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2014). Sun Safety. Retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm