Summers mean clear skies and ample time for some outdoor adventure. But this can be wholly enjoyed if you learn how to incorporate sun safety for yourself and your whole family. It is all about keeping your skin well-protected from the harsh summer heat and to keep yourself hydrated. Sun damage on the skin is often irreversible. It leads to pigmentation issues and also results in premature aging of the skin. However, the fear of skin damage from sun exposure should not keep you homebound on a bright sunny day. Below are some effective tips that people of all age groups can benefit from.
- Do not underestimate the benefit of appropriate clothing
Unless you are planning to take a dip in the pool, you should wear clothes that offer proper coverage. Cooler materials like cotton and linen are the most suitable choices for summers. Lighter colors would keep you cool for long periods of time. When you have to set out in the sun and stay outdoors for a long duration, ensure that you wear loose fitting clothes with long sleeves. Along with appropriate clothing you also need the right type of accessories to enjoy maximum protection. Hats are indispensable, especially when you are planning to spend a weekend at the beach. If you love to enjoy a cold drink by the pool as you watch your kids spend some fun time in the pool, again, you would need a broad brimmed hat for protection.
- Sunscreen cannot be skipped
Sunscreen is a must even if you would not be spending much time outdoors. Using the right type of sunscreen and knowing about the SPF value are very important. Creams, lotions and sprays are some of the most common options when it comes to sun protection. You should choose one that comes with SPF values preferably over 30. SPF or sun protection factor is the amount of blockage that the sunscreen can offer. The type of UV rays it can shield also depends on the type of sunscreen you choose. While some sunscreens penetrate the skin, others form a physical barrier on the epidermis. The duration for which the effects of sunscreen last changes based on the product chosen. Remember that any cosmetic item with basic sun protection formula would not be sufficient on a hot summer day. You need a nourishing sunscreen for this.
- UV index tells you a lot about sun safety
If you have some extended outdoor expedition plans you should always start with understanding about the UV index. Depending on the region where you stay and the weather conditions UV index varies. Depending on the range in which it falls, you would know about the ideal time to spend outdoors on that particular day. UV index that is in the range of 5-7 or more would indicate harsher radiation of the sun. Those would be the days when you should spend as little time outdoors as possible. So, before you plan your next pool party, know what the UV index is.
- Water intake
While you might be strictly adhering to the healthy every day water intake requirements you might still feel hydrated on a sunny day, especially if you have been spending a lot of time outside. This is because your body tends to lose a lot of moisture in the form of sweat on a hot day. You should therefore be extra careful about your water intake. Cut back on sodas and switch to a plain glass of water. Even on those days where you get to spend a lot of time in the perth fibreglass pool, you should keep a bottle of water nearby. You might not feel thirsty at once but your body might be losing its water content at a faster rate than usual during summers. Preventing dehydration should be your number one priority whether you plan to spend time outside your house or indoors.
- Choose the right time of the day for your outdoor activities
Pool parties, afternoon picnics with the family should all be planned when the sun is not directly above. Midday sun tends to be much harsher and more difficult for the skin to manage. So, you should always choose a relatively cooler and more comfortable time of the day like the morning or even the late afternoon. This would make it easier to find shade and spend time outside without worrying about uncomfortable sweating and damage of the skin due to sun exposure. You would still need to focus on choosing comfortable clothes and using a good sunscreen even if the sun is not shining brightly above your head.
Using a good poolside umbrella or relaxing in the shade of a large tree are the best ways to enjoy the warmth of a summer day without worrying about hurting the skin. As much as possible get back indoors and take short breaks instead of sitting outside by the pool for hours together. This is particularly important if you plan to go for a swim on a hot day.
Getting your home pool ready for the summers
When it comes to summer safety for a swimming pool in your house, there are many ways in which you can customize the space. Get a good poolside umbrella that will protect you when you relax by the pool. Even with the water cleaning and maintenance during summer, you might have to make slight changes to your usual routine. There might be a small change in the water alkalinity and pH levels with the weather change. Measure these changes and treat the water so as to keep your pool water safe for your skin.
Sun safety practices should become a habit no matter what physical state you are in and no matter what skin type you have. The real effects of sun-damage on the skin and your overall health might only start appearing slowly. Take the essential precautions, and you can spend your summer days with family outdoors by the pool without guilt.
