Sunshine is good for you in small doses as we get vitamin D from its glow. But everyone needs protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
UV protection is a must. However, if you prefer to avoid sunscreen, how can you protect your skin? Here are a few ways to gain sun protection besides sitting inside.
First of all, what is UV protection and why do we need it?
UV protection means that something is providing a barrier that prevents the human skin from absorbing harmful UV rays. This can be fabric, something that blocks the sun or something you apply to the skin. UV protection is important so that your skin isn’t damaged resulting in sunburn, premature aging or skin cancer.
Ways to protect yourself that aren’t sunscreen
Clothing
It might seem strange, but long sleeves and pants are great protection from the sun. Lightweight, breathable fabrics provide comfortable protection.
Some clothing is even designed to provide UV protection. These options are good choices when participating in outdoor activities like hiking, golf or fishing. UV protection swimwear means you can take a swim without getting burned. Just be sure to read the labels, as the UV protection has limits just like sunscreen does. UV protection clothing is available in sportswear, swimwear and hats.
Sunglasses are a smart choice to protect your eyes when in the sun. They protect your retinas as well as the delicate skin around your eyes. Not all sunglasses have UV protection, so it is important to read the labels.
Outdoor accessories
Shade offers natural protection from the sun. If you’re in a park or on the beach, use an umbrella. There are even umbrellas to carry while walking in bright sunshine that offer protection.
Like some clothing, some umbrellas offer UV protection fabric to prevent those rays from getting through. Cabana-style tents can be used in a sunny backyard to create a barrier from the sun.
Natural protection
Believe it or not, you can gain protection in many natural ways. A diet filled with antioxidants can help with healthy skin that may be able to help resist some of the harmful UV rays. So, be sure to load up on fruits and vegetables which are filled with antioxidants.
Some seed oils are thought to have SPF properties when applied to skin, like sesame, coconut and red raspberry. However, please note that most health experts recommend limiting use to when you will be in the sun for a short period of time as the oils don’t offer high SPFs and might not filter out all UV rays.
The best way to naturally protect yourself from the sun to is avoid the sun in the hours when it is strongest, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. And if you do get a little too much sun, aloe vera is known for soothing the skin after a sunburn but it also offers SPF.
Learn about the health care services we offer at Bon Secours.
