The sun’s rays are only getting worse with global warming. This summer, be careful when you go out and enjoy the sun as its rays aren’t as friendly as they once were. Our skin is our first layer of protection against the sun, and it is also the number one victim.

A common mistake everyone makes is exposing their skin to the sun for long periods of time to “make” Vitamin D.

Expose an extensive amount of your skin to the sun at noon for about fifteen to twenty minutes. That’s enough time for your skin to produce Vitamin D.

If you stay out any longer, it can cause permanent damage to your skin. These five sunburn prevention tips can help you prevent cancer!

1. Don’t Stay Out in the Sun for Too Long

After staying stuck indoors during the long cold months, people go crazy when it gets warm. Many stay out in the sun for hours without considering the kind of damage it might do to their bodies.

You can get vitamin D in a matter of minutes. You are not a tree that needs sunlight to create its food all day. Avoid staying under the sun for too long as there are many negative side effects to this.

The sun will dehydrate you. It also might give you a heat stroke. Your skin suffers the most. Getting frequent sunburns can cause a change in your DNA, which will lead to skin cancer.

If you want to enjoy the great outdoors, find shade. Stay hydrated, enjoy the warmth, and avoid direct contact with sunlight.

2. Get Serious about Sunscreen

Everyone talks about how important sunscreen is, yet most people don’t think it’s serious. Before walking out into the burning summer sun, always remember to apply sunscreen.

Do some research to find the right one for you. You may have to test out a few until you find one that suits your skin type.

Not caring enough to apply sunscreen lotion can leave you with a terrible sunburn. Any sunscreen lotion with SPF 30 is enough to protect your skin from UV rays, but it is wise to use a sunscreen lotion with at least SPF 50 during exposure to extreme sunlight.

Apply a fresh coat of sunscreen every two hours. Remember to re-apply the sunscreen if you go into a swimming pool or the ocean.

3. An Important Message for Men

Most men tend to not be serious about sun protection. It can be potentially life-threatening to make this mistake.

The famous Australian actor Hugh Jackman is well known for his rugged manliness. He was diagnosed with skin cancer back in 2013. 

In 2017, he urged his fans via Twitter to wear sunscreen. He made this post after the removal of his sixth basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer.

Guys, look at it like this. Everyone wants to look nice while hitting the beach. Faveable suggests you might want to apply hair gels to keep your hair in check at the beach and sunscreen to save your skin from cancer.  

4. Ladies, Opt for Makeup with Sun Protection

For regular makeup users, applying sunscreen before the rest of your makeup can be problematic. Many people get breakouts. In hot climates, the skin might suffocate under so many layers.

Luckily, the cosmetics industry has invented many items that serve both purposes. These days, many foundations, compacts, lipsticks, etc, include sun protection of SPF 30.

Other amazing creations are the BB/CC Creams. These creams are great for a lightly made up look. Not only do they moisturize, but they are also at least SPF 30.

Using makeup with sun protection saves you the trouble of putting sunscreen on your face, but remember, you still have to put it on other exposed parts of your skin!

5. Cover Up Some More

It might sound crazy, but covering your skin is a solution. Most people take off layers under the sun due to the heat, but have you ever thought of wearing long sleeves?

In Arabian countries, people wear thawbs and burkas. This kind of clothing gives their bodies full coverage from the burning sun.

You don’t have to do that if you don’t want to. Simply wear light-coloured cotton or linen clothes that cover your skin. Your skin will thank you. Loose, pure cotton clothes can keep you cool and airy.

In warm, humid places like India and Africa, people choose cotton over other materials. Cotton is well known for its breathability. Even if your arms and legs are completely covered, it will not feel suffocating like other materials.

6. Discover the Wonders of the Night this Summer!

Summer nights are wonderful. With the sun away, it’s not suffocatingly hot. There is always a little breeze swaying the trees.

With the fragrance of night blossoms in the air, it is the perfect time for outdoor activities. If you go for runs, do it after daylight hours when your skin will be safe from sunburn. The heat won’t be overwhelming. Cycling at night is also wonderful. Even a nighttime hike under the moonlight is a thrilling experience.

You can try taking cool dips in the swimming pool or in the ocean at night. A nighttime swim can be exhilarating. It will leave your body refreshed, relaxed, and ready for a good night’s sleep.

Final Thoughts

Everyone wants a tan, but no one realizes the consequences of one. Any irreparable change to your skin is bad for you.

The dangers of sunburn aren’t only limited to the burn and the tan. If it alters the DNA of your skin, the change in your body will be permanent.

Remember what Hugh Jackman said. Using sunscreen is always better than getting a skin disease. Men, in particular, tend to spend a lot of time outdoors and are at constant risk.

Ladies, please be careful and use makeup that makes you look good and keeps your skin protected.

This summer, enjoy the sun from a distance and avoid sunburns with these five prevention tips!