Habits to protect your skin from sun damage

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and as a previous dermatology nurse and someone who loves to spend time being active outdoors, I am an advocate for protecting our skin. 

Keep reading for some of my thoughts, healthy sun habits and favorite products for protecting against UV rays, the main cause of skin cancer.  

Create your own shade! 

There are many active wear clothing companies that produce clothing with UPF (ultraviolet protection factor). UPF is like the SPF rating for sunscreen, but for fabric. Target’s Cat & Jack kids clothing brand, Athleta, REI, Coolibar, LL Bean, Columbia and Vuori are just a few brands that offer rash guard style swim tops, cover ups and athleisure. The options have come a long way in recent years.

Accessorize! 

Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat will keep you cool and provide extra protection for more delicate skin areas like the face, ears and neck. On our beach trip to Florida this year, I loved the Costa hat from Carve Designs. With a 4.75 inch brim I got a TON of sun protection and it’s light-weight with an adjustable chin cord that keeps it from blowing  away…and it’s only $22! 

Choose a broad-spectrum (protects from both UVA and UVB rays) sunscreen that is at least SPF 15 and actually use it!

There are a myriad of different formulations to choose from which can be confusing to say the least. For most people, the feel of the sunscreen is the most important factor of whether they are going to use it consistently.

If you are going to be sweating or swimming, be sure to choose a water-resistant sunscreen and reapply according to the directions, at least every 2 hours. Sprays and sunscreen sticks are great for re-applying. These aren’t my favorite for an initial application; I like to ensure I’m getting a full 1 oz rubbed in thoroughly and the sprays and sticks are a guessing game. 

Create a Sun Station!

Set out a basket with sunglasses and sunscreen near your entryway or wherever you keep your keys and wallet. This visual cue should help you remember before you head out the door. Apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before heading outside to allow for full protection.

You could also keep your sunscreen out on the bathroom counter or with the rest of the products you use to get ready in the morning. If it’s tucked away in a drawer, you won’t remember to use it. 

Splurge on the pump-top!

Once you find a product that you like, buy a large pump-top bottle of it and keep it in an obvious place. This is more cost effective than buying a bunch of smaller bottles and saves on packaging. It’s also easier to teach kids how to apply their sunscreen with a pump top dispenser as opposed to squeeze bottles. Model safe sun behavior and make sun protection part of your daily habit to instill the importance in them. 

Don’t get caught off-guard!

If you are constantly on the go between practices and games, invest in a sports chair with a sun canopy and keep it in your car. Keep a hat in your car too! Do not keep sunscreen in the car, the high temperatures will degrade the sunscreen, making it less effective. Instead, keep your sunscreen in your purse, gym or work bag. 

Do your best to plan activities to avoid direct sun exposure between 10 am and 2 pm, the period of highest UV intensity. 

Don’t let sunburns keep you from enjoying the outdoors. Get in the habit of practicing sun safe behaviors and your skin will thank you!