Sunburn can be painful and damaging, especially in the summer when the sun’s rays are strongest. Preventing it is simple with a few smart habits.
Apply sunscreen:Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Look for one with an SPF of at least 50, the higher, the better. Apply it at least 20 minutes before going outdoors. This gives it time to absorb and start working before sun exposure. When picking a sunscreen, think about your activities. For swimming, choose a water-resistant formula. If you're hiking, go for one that also includes insect repellent.
Reapply sunscreen: Reapply sunscreen every 90 minutes. If you're sweating a lot or swimming, apply it more often. Take your time when reapplying—cover all exposed skin properly. Use about a nickel-sized amount for your face. For your body, two shot glasses worth of lotion is a good estimate for full coverage.
Pay attention to your body:Your body gives signals when it has had too much sun. Take a moment to check in with yourself. Does your skin feel too hot? Is it starting to feel tight or uncomfortable? Do you notice any pain? If you answered yes to any of these, it is time to go indoors and give your skin a break.
Give proper time for recovery:Sunburned skin can take up weeks to fully heal. Getting burned again during this time can slow or stop the healing process. While your skin is recovering, be gentle with your body and limit sun exposure as much as possible.
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