PHOTOGRAPHY: GETTY IMAGES / TOP PHOTO GROUP
APPLY SUNSCREEN
Sunscreens are labeled with a sun protection factor (SPF) that
tells how much protection they offer from UVB rays that cause
sunburn. While no amount of SPF is able to provide complete
protection, sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30
protect against 97 percent of sun damage, while SPF 50
sunscreens guard against 98 percent. It is equally important to
make sure your sunscreen is labeled for “broad spectrum” or
UVA protection to also guard against skin cancer and aging.
Apply one ounce, or two tablespoons, to cover the entire body;
sunscreen will only provide the amount of protection on the label
if you apply a sufficient amount. Reapply every two hours, and
immediately after swimming, sweating, or towel-drying.
WATER SAFETY
Spray sunscreens are convenient to re-apply, and sport or water-
resistant formulas are your best bet if you plan to swim or
exercise. No sunscreen is completely waterproof, but sunscreens
defined as “water resistant” by the FDA will remain effective for
40 minutes while immersed in water, while “very water resistant”
sunscreens will be effective for 80 minutes. These sunscreens
still need to be re-applied if you will be in the water for longer
than this amount of time.
If you plan to swim for an extended period, a swim shirt or
rash guard with an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF) of 30 or
higher is a more dependable alternative to sunscreen. But an
average cotton T-shirt won’t cut it — a white cotton T-shirt offers
only UPF 5, an amount so low that fair-skinned people may still
be sunburned through their clothing.
PROTECT YOUR FACE
In addition to applying sunscreen to the face (out of the two
tablespoons for the whole body, use a nickel-sized amount for the
face), bring along the right accessories to complete your outfit.
Not only are a straw hat and sunglasses fashionable beachwear,
but they can also help protect your face from harm. If you will be
traveling this summer, look for a brimmed, crushable hat that
packs well in luggage. A brim of at least three inches will not
only protect your face but also your neck, shoulders, and upper
back. For sunglasses, oversize and wrap-around styles will block
the most light. Choose shades that are labeled to provide at least
99% protection from UV light.
DRESSING DEFENSIVELY
When choosing what to wear for a summer’s day out, look at the
fabric and cut of each item of clothing. Lightweight fabrics in
natural materials such as cotton, linen, and even lightweight wool
help you stay cool by circulating air and allowing heat to escape.
Lighter colors such as white, beige, and pastels reflect light,
helping to deflect some of the sun’s rays (and they may even give
your mood a lift). Go for more coverage — long-sleeved shirts,
long pants, and skirts cover more skin than shorts and a T-shirt.
Not only will they protect from sun damage, but they’ll keep
away pesky mosquitos as well.
AIR IT OUT
The hot and humid summer weather also increases the risk of
developing fungal infections, which grow in warm and damp
environments. Wear clean socks and well-ventilated footwear to
help prevent athlete’s foot. Also be sure to dry your feet
thoroughly after swimming or bathing. To prevent yeast infection
or jock itch, wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing and
underwear in natural fibers such as cotton, linen, and silk, and
change into dry clothes as soon as possible after swimming or
exercising.
KEEP COOL
Stay in the shade as much as possible while out sightseeing or
walking around. Stick to areas with buildings, trees, and
overhangs. Bring a lightweight travel sun parasol for city
strolling or areas where there won’t be much shade. And if you
are on the beach, set up your towel under an umbrella. Better yet,
many companies now produce lightweight beach tents and sun
shelters that offer UPF50+.
Protect your skin by covering up where possible
and using a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 on ex-
posed skin. Good-quality sunglasses will help pre-
vent UV damage to your eyes.
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