Whether you enjoy a getaway to a warm, pristine beach, on the water slopes on a sunny winter dayor sunbathing in your own backyard, you need to protect your skin and your health. These tips will help you stay sane and sane while enjoying the outdoors.
Ultraviolet effects
The sun produces different levels of ultraviolet (UV) rays and these different levels can affect your skin in a variety of ways, including but not limited to tanning, sunburn and skin cancer. The two main types of rays are called UVA and UVB. UVA has the lowest energy level, but makes up about 95% of the sun’s energy
UV rays. It causes sunburn, tanning, premature aging, wrinkles and some skin cancers. UVB rays have a medium energy level and can cause sunburn, blisters and skin cancer, but they make up only about 5% of the sun’s UV rays. So make sure you buy broad spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin
skin against both types of UV rays.
Chemical versus mineral sunscreens
There are two main types of sunscreens: chemical and mineral. Chemical sunscreens rub into your skin and act like UV ray sponges, absorbing the sun’s harmful rays. They usually contain ingredients such as Oxybenzone, Octinoxate and Avobenzone. Mineral sunscreen does not rub in, but rather stays on your skin and acts as a shield to protect your skin from UV rays. Most mineral sunscreens contain zinc oxide or titanium oxide. Chemical sunscreens generally contain more water
and sweat resistant, but mineral sunscreens are better for people with sensitive skin. Make sure you choose the sunscreen that is right for both you and your skin.
Hydration station
Make sure you stay hydrated indoors if you spend time outside. Your body is made up of 50-70% water, and it’s easy to forget how quickly the sun and humidity deplete water. There are many ways to calculate how much water you need per day, but you know you’re drinking enough when you rarely feel
thirsty and your urine is light yellow. If you or your child are bored of drinking plain water, try coconut water, tea, watermelon or mineral/vitamin water. These still have the fantastic
benefits of water, but add some different flavors to your taste buds.
Sunshine and serotonin
The outdoors is known to improve mental health for a number of reasons, but perhaps the most important is the sunshine! Boost your serotonin levels by exercising outside or taking up a new outdoor hobby. The sun’s UV rays are stronger in the summer and as you get closer to the equator. Spending time in the sun also increases your vitamin D and serotonin levels. Vitamin D is a mood booster and reduces the risk of depression, so get outside and enjoy the sun!