8 Tips for Sun Safety This Summer

While sunscreen serves as the primary safeguard against sun damage, its effectiveness is amplified when combined with additional protective measures, especially during summer and beyond. Here are some valuable tips for shielding yourself from harmful UV rays.

1. Opt for a wide-brimmed hat

Many individuals, particularly men, tend to prefer ball caps for sun protection. Although they offer limited shade for the scalp, they fall short in fully guarding the face, particularly the nose and chin. For enhanced coverage, choose wide-brimmed hats such as bucket or safari styles. Additionally, buffs—similar to those worn by contestants on Survivor—are great options due to their flexible style that allows for extensive sun protection. I personally recommend the Buff USA UV Collection, renowned for its capability to block up to 95 percent of harmful UV rays. (See also: 10 Ways to Age Well for $0)

2. Install protective films on windows

If you frequently find yourself in cars or near sunlit windows, consider applying protective window films to shield your skin from strong UV rays. This is particularly relevant for those who drive with the windows down, as the left arm often receives prolonged exposure while resting on the door frame.

Solar Gard has developed an innovative sun protection technology for its automotive and residential window films, offering a protection level akin to SPF 285. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends their films, which provide 99 percent defense against UVA and UVB rays.

3. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen daily

Consistent sunscreen application is crucial, especially in summer, but it’s essential all year round. Renée Serbon, Founder of Dermal Systems, emphasizes using a broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning, even when the sun isn’t shining brightly. “Cloudy weather does not eliminate UV damage to the skin,” she notes.

If your routine entails spending over 20 minutes outside daily, integrating sunscreen into your habits is key to safeguarding your skin.

4. Reapply with dry sunscreen as needed

Makeup wearers often struggle with maintaining a sunscreen routine while looking polished. Serbon offers a solution.

“I strongly recommend investing in a dry sunscreen,” she explains. “To truly be proactive about sun protection, reapplication every two hours is crucial; dry sunscreen simplifies this process. It can be used over makeup, serving as an effective physical block right away.”

This form of sunscreen can be applied similarly to foundation, with most products available in easy-to-use brush-tipped tubes.

5. Stay out of direct sunlight during peak hours

The sun is most intense between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and sun-safety experts advise limiting exposure during these times. However, this is often when outdoor activities are most appealing, so consider using clothing, accessories such as umbrellas, and sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or more to help reduce your exposure.

6. Seek shade whenever possible

Think back to the ’70s and ’80s when tanning oils were all the rage; many from that era may now regret those days as they face skin damage. If skin cancer doesn’t affect you, the inevitable aging might make you wish for the days you took better care.

“The sun boosts an enzyme called collagenase that breaks down collagen,” Serbon warns. “This leads to premature aging, and while there are solutions for this, prevention is truly the best strategy for maintaining youthful skin.”

Whenever the sun seems inviting, take cover under an umbrella, tree, or awning to protect your delicate skin.

7. Ensure your eyewear meets standards

Skin protection is vital, but eye safety is equally important. The 2015 UV Protection Report from the Vision Council revealed that 70 percent of American adults are unaware of the dangers of UV exposure to vision. UV rays can harm both skin and eyes.

Optometrist Dr. Jennifer Lyerly provides these sun protection insights:

“Darker lenses don’t guarantee better protection; be mindful of this myth.”
“Inquire with your doctor about the UV shield offered by your glasses; they should provide at least 98 percent protection.”
“Consider Transitions lenses that block 100 percent of UV rays and adjust to light variations.”
“Wraparound sunglasses are excellent for shielding your eyes from glare.”

8. Choose long sleeves for extended outdoor activity

If you’re not hitting the beach, wearing long sleeves is advisable for prolonged outdoor activities like gardening or hiking. Any long-sleeve shirt will work, but I recommend moisture-wicking or UV-protection shirts as they offer both comfort and sun defense.