As the summer holidays are upon us, it’s time to soak up the sun and enjoy the great outdoors. However, it’s crucial to prioritise sun safety to protect our skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. Here at What’s the Buzz Magazine, we are dedicated to promoting sun safety and spreading awareness about the importance of protecting ourselves from the sun’s harmful effects. In this article, we present our top tips and the five ways to safeguard your skin while having fun in the sun.
Slip – Slop – Slap – Slide – Shade
Slip on a T-shirt
When venturing out into the sun, don’t forget to slip on a lightweight, long-sleeved T-shirt. The fabric acts as a barrier between your skin and the sun’s rays, reducing direct exposure. Opt for tightly woven fabrics that provide better sun protection. Remember, the more skin you cover, the better protected you’ll be.
Slop on sun cream with a protection factor of 30 or more
Sunscreen is an essential component of sun safety. Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Apply a generous amount to all exposed areas of your skin, including your face, neck, arms, and legs. Don’t forget commonly overlooked areas like your ears, the back of your neck, and the tops of your feet. Reapply sunscreen every two hours or more frequently if you’re swimming or perspiring.
Slap on a wide-brimmed hat
Protecting your face, neck, and ears is crucial when it comes to sun safety. Slap on a wide-brimmed hat that provides shade and shields these areas from direct sunlight. Look for hats with brims that are at least three inches wide to offer ample coverage. Additionally, hats with neck flaps or capes provide added protection for the back of your neck.
Slide on some quality sunglasses
Your eyes also need protection from harmful UV rays. Slide on a pair of high-quality sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Look for sunglasses labeled with UV 400 or provide 100% UV protection. Choose styles that cover a large portion of your eye area and provide wraparound coverage to minimise sunlight from entering from the sides.
Shade from the sun wherever possible
Seeking shade whenever possible is an effective way to minimise direct sun exposure and reduce the risk of sunburn. Whether it’s under a tree, umbrella, or a shade structure, make a conscious effort to find shaded areas. Creating your own shade using a beach tent or canopy is also a great option, particularly during outdoor activities like picnics or beach outings.
Remember, kids: No hat, no play!
As parents, it’s crucial to ensure our children are adequately protected from the sun’s harmful rays. Make it a rule that no hat means no play in the sun. Encourage your little ones to wear hats that provide shade to their face, neck, and ears. Choosing hats with wide brims or neck flaps will provide extra protection and keep them safe during outdoor playtime.
As we embark on summer adventures and spend more time outdoors, sun safety should be a top priority. By following the Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide approach, we can minimise the risks of sunburn, premature aging, and the development of skin cancer. Remember to slip on protective clothing, slop on sunscreen, slap on sunglasses, seek shade during peak hours, and slide on UV-protective sunglasses. And don’t forget, kids: No hat, no play! Let’s enjoy the summer safely and responsibly while keeping our skin protected.