By Viktoria
Updated: August 17, 2023
7 minutes
Although the sun is the driving force of our life and we cannot live without it, radiation from the sun has more side effects than beneficial effects on our skin. And you cannot avoid sun exposure no matter which part of the world you are living in.
So, the only solution left is to protect yourself from the sun. So, if you found your way here while looking for methods to stay safe in the sun, I am glad that you got in the right place.
I am a strong believer in “prevention is better than cure”. So, you can find the tips to keep your skin safe in the sun in this article. Moreover, I have added products that can help you with skin protection from sunglasses to sunscreen.
What Does the Sun Do to Our Skin?
Sun has 3 types of sun rays; UVA that are the longest wavelength radiations that are absorbed into the deep surface of the skin, UVB that has an intermediate wavelength and only reaches the top layers of the skin, and UVC with a short wavelength which is absorbed into the atmosphere without reaching our skin.
UVA rays are known to have long-term effects like premature aging and sun tanning. UVB causes immediate effects like skin redness and burning. These two rays when not counteracted can result in skin care.
The incidence of skin cancer has exponentially increased in the last few years. That is exactly why careful and consistent protection from the sun is needed.
Who is More Prone to Sun Damage?
Although every person exposed to direct sunlight is prone to damage caused by sun radiations, people with fair skin tones are more sensitive as their skin absorbs more sunlight. Melanin in the skin provides some degree of sun protection.
People with blonde or red hair colors also tend to absorb more radiation. Additionally, people who recovered from skin cancer or have a family member with skin cancer need to be more careful as there is already some mutation in their cells.
Tips to Stay Safe in the Sun
Here are some tips to protect your skin from UV radiation and stay safe in scorching heat with unlimited UV exposure. Also, if you are planning on a summer tour, sun protection is an absolute necessity. Check out 15 Must-Haves for Summer Vacation here.
1. Avoid Sun Exposure as much as Possible
First things first, sun radiation is causing the damage, right? So, avoid sun rays. You can limit your exposure to the sun by covering your windows with UV-protective curtains and sheets. Moreover, you should not leave the house until it is necessary.
And even if you are going on an outing or errand, make sure to take measures to prevent sunlight from reaching your skin.
2. Protect your Body, Face, and Eyes
Wear clothes that cover the full body like long sleeves to protect your body. Also, it would be great if you can get dresses that offer UV protection. However, because summer is here and wearing long dresses can be a problem. Therefore, apply sunscreen on the exposed areas.
Also, never ever forget the sunscreen on your face which is more exposed to sun rays. To add in the effects of sunscreen, wear goggles and a hat with UV protection.
3. Staying Consistent with Sun Protection
Regardless of the season and time of the day, it is important to take all measures to stay safe in the sun. It is not that you wear sunscreen and sun-protective clothes one day and completely forget it for the next few days.
So, make a routine and make sure to follow it.
4. Healthy Food
Sunrays increase the level of oxidants like free radicals and reactive oxygen species in the skin. So, eating foods rich in antioxidants can help you make yourself stronger to fight such effects. You can check out the fruits to eat in Antioxidants for Skin Health .
Products to use to Stay Safe in the Sun
UV protective Sunglasses
Our eyes, just like our skin, can absorb sun rays and accumulated sun damage can cause reversible effects like cataracts, dry eye, and even blindness. So, I want you to stay ahead in protecting your eyes from the sun with these products.
1. MEETSUN Polarized Sunglasses for Women Men
MEETSUN Polarized Sunglasses are unisex glasses that can reflect up to 400 nm of UV radiation and provide 100% protection to the eyes. They come in various frame and lens colors. Moreover, their lenses are polarized. So, they improve vision while preventing glare.
Additionally, you get a lifetime warranty where you can get these sunglasses repaired or exchanged in case of any damage.
2. DUSHINE Polarized Sunglasses for Women
DUSHINE sunglasses are for women who are into retro-style sunglasses made of high-quality materials that last a lifetime. These sunglasses come in trendy and stylish patterns and colors. Their frames are made of durable plastic, with talc polarized lenses, and reinforced metal hinges.
Moreover, with their attractive design comes their reliable functionality as they offer full protection against UV light and glare.
3. SOJOS Trendy Oversized Square Metal Frame Sunglasses for Women
If you are more into metal frames and oversized glasses, SOJOS Oversized sunglasses are for you. These glasses feature a slim metal frame in a big square and mono or double-toned lenses. These lenses offer 99% of UV protection and filter out the sun’s rays.
Additionally, the frame is made of stainless steel that is resistant to breakage of molding, sturdy metal hinges that do not become loose, and soft silicon pads to support the glasses on the nose.
Umbrella
Sunglasses are one thing, Umbrellas are a must to provide yourself enough shade from the sun in summer. Additionally, getting umbrellas made of UV-protective material is the cherry on the cake. So, here are a few options for the best umbrellas you can buy this summer.
1. Repel Umbrella Windproof Travel Umbrella
Repel Umbrella is a big umbrella that can be folded into a compact size when not in use. It is resistant to water, wind, and sun rays because of its strong teflon coating and durable fiberglass ribs. So, you get a user-friendly umbrella that protects your skin and body in extremes of weather.
Additionally, it features an easy-to-operate auto touch on/off button. It comes in several light and dark colors.
2. CUBY UV Sun Umbrella Compact Folding Travel Umbrella
If you prefer umbrellas with beautiful prints that give cheerful summer vibes, Cuby UV Sun umbrellas can save the day for you while looking all pretty and cute. This waterproof, sunlight-resistant, quick-dry umbrella features fiberglass and aluminum alloy ribs, high-density fabric with innovative vinyl layer technology to reflect sun rays, and an automatic one-button design.
Moreover, it comes in floral patterns with lace on the side. You can close it into a travel-friendly umbrella as well.
3. Sunnyglade 9′ Solar LED Lighted Patio Umbrella
Umbrellas are not only to be carried on the go. If you enjoy staying on your patio while enjoying the summer breeze or reading a book, get a patio umbrella like the Sunnyglade Solar umbrella installed in your open space. It is made of rust-free aluminum poles, steel ribs, and polyester canopy fabric.
Moreover, it offers 24 LED lights, a crank open/close system, and easy to tilt design. So, you can use it to save yourself from the sun in the morning and enjoy a romantic home dinner date at night.
Hats
If you feel reluctant to carry an umbrella with you every day, buy some hats with broad brims to protect your face from direct sunlight. Here are some cool yet useful hats you can gift yourself.
1. Muryobao Women’s Ponytail Sun Hat
Murybao Women’s Sun Hat is an excellent option to buy as it offers more than a simple broad-brimmed summer hat. It has foldable side snaps. So, it can be used in a cowboy hat or flat-brim hat style. Additionally, it comes with built-in UV protection to save your eyes and face from UV rays.
There is a ponytail hole behind the crown area of the hat to help you take care of your routine hairstyle. Moreover, it has a buckle to adjust the hat according to your size.
2. FURTALK Sun Visor Hats for Women
The second in this list is a stylist paper straw hat with a foldable manufacturing and ponytail/messy bun top opening design. It also provides shade from the sun and allows you to enjoy beach or pool parties.
Moreover, it has a velcro to adjust its size. So, you can share it with your younger sister as well. Lastly, it comes in several neutral colors like gray, black, brown, or more.
Sunscreens
Now coming to the most important part without which no measures can protect your skin from harmful sunlight. It is the sunblock both in cream and stick form. Here are my top pics in this category. However, I suggest you go through Best Sunscreen Sticks if you want some more options.
1. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion
Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Dry-Touch sunscreen is a PABA-free lightweight sunblock that does not clog the pores, easily absorbs into the skin, provides a matte finish, and offers long-lasting sun protection. Moreover, it has helio plex to protect the skin from sunburns.
So, It is easy to apply because of the thin lotion-like consistency.
2. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Light Fluid Face Sunscreen
La Roche-Posay Light Fluid Face Sunscreen is for people who want to put zero effort into applying sunscreen and do not want to look like a white ghost either. It is a lightweight sunscreen with spf60 protection having cell-ox shield technology and both UVA and UVB filters.
It contains silica powder that absorbs excess oils and gives it a non-greasy matte appearance. Moreover, it is free of oxybenzone and octinoxate. Lastly, it is perfect for acne-prone skin because it does not clog the pores.
3. Abib Quick Sunstick Protection Bar
Reapplying the sunblock every 2 hours is important because even the best sunblock cannot offer sun protection for a long time. However, it is difficult to reapply sunscreen throughout the day. So, Sunsticks like Abib Quick Sun Protection Bar come in handy in such circumstances.
It is an spf50 sun stick with an easy-to-glide curved design making application feasible. Moreover, it nourishes the skin with ingredients like peptides, ceramides, cucumber, and Centella extracts.
Conclusion
Sunrays will always find their way to you whether it is summer, spring, or winter and a bright or cloudy day. In all such seasons and circumstances, prolonged sun exposure is never good for the skin, especially during peak hours. So, you should take measures to protect your skin from the sun.
That is why, I have shared my go-to tips and products to stay safe in the sun.
