Outdoor Life, WellnessMarley PhillipsMay 12, 2025suncreen, sun, summer, Skincare

Fun in the Sun: Protecting Your Skin

Outdoor Life, WellnessMarley PhillipsMay 12, 2025suncreen, sun, summer, Skincare

We have all heard, "Get your daily dose of Vitamin D from the sun," but there is a fine line between enjoying the sun's benefits and harming our skin.

The sun can boost our moods, give us energy, and overall improve our health. However, overexposure can lead to early aging, skin damage, and even skin cancer. Here are some tips to protect your skin and get the perfect summer glow!!

SPF is good for you!!!

As someone who tans every day in the summer, it is super important to know SPF will not affect your tan. It will still allow you to get a tan but will keep you from getting burnt. Sunscreen does not block the sun from your skin; it blocks harmful UV rays from entering it. Here are some things to look for in a good sunscreen:

Hydration for long periods
UVA and UVB protection
Up to 80 minutes of water resistance
A scent you love
SPF of at least 30

Seek Shade and time your exposure

UV rays are most potent when the sun is at its highest peak in the sky. This period is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. However, being outside in small intervals is essential to protect your skin. The best way to break up your time is to split it into 10-20 minute intervals, with breaks in the shade or under an umbrella in between. Your time outside can also depend on the UV index, a scale that predicts the intensity of sunburn-producing ultraviolet radiation from the sun. If the number is lower, staying outside for more extended periods is safer than if the number is higher.

Low: 0-2: little to no protection needed

Medium: 3-5: some protection needed
High: 6-7: protection essential
Very high: 8-10: extra protection needed
Extreme: 11+: stay inside!

Hydrate and Moisturize your Skin

Sun exposure can dry out your skin, leading to wrinkles, irritation, and other signs of premature aging. The sun can dehydrate your skin, leaving it dry, flaky, and prone to more damage. Aim to increase your water intake while spending time outside by drinking around 3-4 additional glasses.

Use a good moisturizer. After spending time outside, using a soothing lotion to lock in hydration is essential. Look for products with ingredients like aloe vera, hyaluronic acid, and glycerin, which help replenish moisture in your skin. If you experience sunburn, choose products with cooling ingredients like aloe or chamomile.