Whether you’re spending time out on the water or just enjoying the great outdoors, it’s easy to forget your sunscreen. Summers get hot in Bonita Springs, but at Bonita Boat Rentals, we know the importance of taking caution with the sun. If you don’t take steps to protect yourself, you may end the day with a painful sunburn. Follow the six steps below to prevent sunburn and enjoy a safe time out in the sun.
Wear Sunscreen
Never leave home without sunscreen. Even if you only plan on being outdoors for an hour or two, sunscreen will protect your skin from the sun’s damaging rays and prevent sunburn. Sunscreen becomes even more important early in the season when you’re more likely to get burned.
Opt for a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. For optimal protection, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or greater.
Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to sensitive areas, like your ears, shoulders, back of the knees and neck. Reapply every two hours for maximum protection, or after swimming.
Cover Up
One of the simplest and easiest ways to avoid a sunburn is to cover up. Large floppy hats can prevent the sun’s rays from reaching most parts of your body.
Umbrellas and beach cover ups can also keep your skin safe. If you plan on hiking or biking, consider wearing a long-sleeve cotton shirt. Cotton is a breathable fabric and will help keep you cool, but you can also purchase long-sleeve shirts made from materials with wicking properties that will keep you cool and dry.
Avoid Going Out During Peak Sun Hours
The sun’s rays are the strongest between the hours of 10am and 3pm. If sunscreen and covering up is not an option, consider staying out of the sun between these hours.
While not ideal — after all, these are the best hours of the day to enjoy the outdoors — staying indoors during these peak hours will keep your skin safe.
Wear a Hat
For long hikes, beach days and afternoon out on the boat, consider wearing a hat. It can be difficult — if not impossible — to apply sunscreen to your scalp, and your hair may not provide you with optimal protection against the sun’s rays. A hat will provide your scalp with optimal protection from the sun.
Sun hats or larger floppy hats can also protect other areas of the body, like your shoulders and upper body, from the sun.
Wear Sunglasses
When we talk about sunburn prevention, most people only consider their skin, but it’s also important to protect your eyes from the sun’s damaging rays.
If you plan on spending an extended amount of time out in the sun, wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from UVA and UVB rays.
Avoid Exposure Altogether
When UV indexes and temperatures are particularly high, consider avoiding sun exposure altogether.
Preventing sunburn is an important step in keeping your skin healthy and preventing skin cancer. Remember, if you’re spending time out in the sun, always wear sunscreen and/or cover up.
Boat Rentals Bonita Springs, FL
Do you have more questions about safe beach or boat rental practices? Call Bonita Boat Rentals today at (239) 992-2137. Our friendly staff is here to help you.