The Ultimate Guide to Sun Protection when traveling
It’s that time of year again!
Time to throw caution to the wind, pack your bags and head off on some amazing adventures.
But before you do, there’s one small thing we need to chat about… SUN PROTECTION!
We know, we know. You’re busy. You’ve got places to be and things to see. But trust us, taking a few extra minutes to slather on some sunscreen will be well worth it in the long run.
Keep reading for the ultimate guide to sun protection when traveling.
Types of Sunscreen
First things first, let’s talk sunscreen. Not all sunscreens are created equal and with so many options on the market, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. When choosing sunscreen, there are two main types: chemical and physical.
– Chemical sunscreens work by absorption; they penetrate the top layer of skin and absorb UV rays before they can do any damage.
– Physical sunscreens work by reflection; they sit on top of the skin and reflect UV rays away from the body.
Both types of sunscreen are effective but physical sunscreens tend to be a little better at protecting against both UVA and UVB rays. They also have the added benefit of being gentler on sensitive skin. For these reasons, we recommend using physical sunscreen when traveling, especially if you’ll be spending long periods of time outdoors.
Application Techniques
Now that you know what kind of sunscreen to use, let’s talk about application techniques… because believe it or not, there is a right way and a wrong way to do it! Applying sunscreen may seem like a no-brainer but most people don’t realize that they aren’t using nearly enough product, or applying it properly.
Here are a few tips
1. Cover up!
Wearing long sleeves, pants, and a hat will help protect your skin from harmful UV rays. If you can, find clothing that has an SPF rating.
2. Seek shade!
Whenever possible, take a break in the shade. This will help your body temperature cool down and give your skin a break from the sun.
3. Use sunscreen!
Be sure to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher every two hours, even on cloudy days. Don’t forget to reapply after swimming or sweating!
4. Drink lots of water!
Staying hydrated will help your body avoid heat exhaustion and keep your skin healthy and resilient.
5. Know your limit!
Everyone’s skin is different, so it’s important to know how much sun exposure your body can handle before burning. If you start to feel too hot or dizzy, get out of the sun immediately and find some shade.
6. Check the forecast!
Before heading out for the day, check the UV index for your destination. This will help you plan accordingly and dress appropriately for the amount of sun exposure you’ll be getting.
7. Bring essentials!
Pack lip balm with SPF, sunglasses, and a lightweight scarf or sarong in case you need extra coverage from the sun. It’s better to have too much than not enough!
8 . Check for signs of skin cancer!
Perform regular self-exams and see a dermatologist at least once a year for professional skin cancer screenings—especially if you have moles or freckles, fair skin, or a family history of skin cancer.
Be on the lookout for any changes in existing moles or new ones that appear suddenly.If you notice anything suspicious, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with a doctor.
wrapping up…
You should be aware of the dangers associated with overexposure to sunlight and take necessary precautions such as wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen, and seeking shade.
It is also recommended that you check local UV forecasts, drink lots of water, and know your limits when it comes to exposure.
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to often-forgotten areas like the back of the neck, tops of feet, and ears.
And if you’ll be spending time in the water, be sure to choose a waterproof sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Now that you know everything there is to know about sunscreen, go forth and enjoy your travels!
