Posted by 
October 8, 2020
If traveling to a sunny and warm place is on your to-do list, you should be aware that scorching temperatures and intense sunlight can be detrimental to your health. While extreme temperatures can expose anyone to heat illnesses, health risks are greatest for infants, young children, those with chronic ailments, and older travelers.
Dealing with overexposure to UV radiation is simple and should not hinder us from enjoying the beach during the summer season. Whether touring around in a city or lounging about outside, it is essential to protect yourself and your loved ones from the sun’s piercing effect.
Wherever your travel escapades take you and your family this summer, ensure that these tips are followed to remain safe.
1. Drink A lot of Water
Most people enjoy packing their vehicle’s roof rack store with stuff they’ll need to spend time outdoors on sunny days. While outside during the hot sunny weather, always keep in mind that too much sun exposure can have serious consequences. This could range from potentially life-threatening sunstroke to painful sunburns.
To reduce dehydration risk, drink plenty of cold liquids, preferably water, before you feel thirsty.
2. Choose the Right Sunscreen
Did you know that the sun’s UV rays can harm your skin in just a 15-minute time frame? Sunscreen is one of the best ways of protecting yourself, so ensure to use sunscreen on all exposed skin.
Sunscreens are best if they can protect you from ultraviolet rays, are broad-spectrum, and have SPF 30+1. Always put on sunscreen 20 minutes before stepping out in the sun. When applying, make sure to get help for areas that are hard to reach like your back. Make sure to reapply regularly; when sweating, on cloudy days, even on days where it’s not so sunny.
Apply an ounce of sunscreen on every part of your body. One ounce is about the size of a golf ball- use more than an ounce if you’re sweating or swimming. A small tube containing three to five ounces of sunscreen might only be enough for one person, this is especially true during those days where the sun is scorching.
Never use any sunblock that you may have bought during the previous year. Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time, and your exposure to skin damage will increase significantly.
Here are round up tips for using sunscreen effectively:
3. Stay In the Shade
Whether you’re cycling around the streets or are out for a day at the beach, continually staying under direct exposure to the sun is never a good idea. According to the Cancer Council NSW, staying in the shade can reduce ultraviolet (UV) exposure by up to 75%. You will do yourself a lot of good by sheltering under a shady tree, pavilion, or an umbrella throughout the day. Doing this will help limit the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays.
Always keep in mind that the sun’s UV rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. If you’re out during that time, try and alternate between sun and shade.
4. Choose the Right Clothing
When outside for the better part of the day, the clothing you decide to put on can greatly influence your level of sunlight protection. Sure, any clothing can give you protection, but some apparels are more effective than others.
These tips will guide you on the kind of garments that can offer protection even on the brightest of days:
5. Carry Your Sunglasses
In addition to clothing and hats, don’t forget to carry your sunglasses. They will protect the soft skin around your eyes from getting exposed to the sun. When buying sunglasses, look for the type that blocks UVB and UVA rays to get optimum protection. Wrap-around glasses would be the best choice since they block UV rays from getting in from the side.
The Bottom Line
Going out and having fun in the hot summer sun doesn’t have to be a risky affair. By following these tips, you’ll not only look tan but also protect your skin from the harmful effects of solar radiation as well.
