Sun Protection: How to Keep Your Skin Safe Every Day

If you’ve ever ended up with a nasty sunburn or felt the sting of too much sun, you know just how important sun protection is. UV rays don’t just cause immediate discomfort—they can lead to long-term skin damage like wrinkles and even skin cancer. So, what’s the best way to protect yourself without turning your life upside down? It’s simpler than you think.

Choose Your Sunscreen Wisely and Use It Right

Picking a sunscreen is more than just grabbing the first bottle you see. Look for one that’s broad-spectrum, meaning it shields you from both UVA and UVB rays. SPF 30 is a solid choice for everyday activities, but if you’ll be out in strong sun for a while, go higher. Remember, applying sunscreen isn’t a one-and-done deal—you need to reapply every two hours, or right after swimming or heavy sweating.

Don’t forget the easy-to-miss spots like your ears, the back of your neck, and your hands. And apply it about 15 minutes before heading outdoors to give it time to soak in.

Additional Steps to Block the Sun

Sunscreen is just part of your sun protection toolkit. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat adds physical shade to your face and neck, areas most at risk for sun damage. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants can also shield your skin without making you too hot—especially if they have a UPF rating, which means they’re specifically designed to block UV rays.

Timing plays a big role too. UV rays are strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. If you can, plan outdoor activities early in the morning or later in the afternoon. When you must be out at peak times, seek shade whenever possible.

Lastly, sunglasses protect your eyes from UV damage and reduce the risk of cataracts. Look for those labeled with 100% UV protection.

Sun protection doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a few smart steps, you can enjoy the outdoors and keep your skin healthy and happy. Ready to make sun safety a daily habit? Start with your sunscreen and build up from there—it’s your skin’s best friend against the sun’s strongest rays.