The 10 Commandments For Sunbathing
Summer is one of the most anticipated seasons. Many long to go to the beach, the pool or the river to show off their swimsuits and bikinis and soak up some sun. If you are one of those people, we have a question for you: Do you take into account the 10 commandments to sunbathe well?
Saying goodbye to the gray sky and enjoying the sunny days is something wonderful. However, it is vital to take certain precautions to obtain a beautiful and healthy tan at the same time. Pay attention to these tips and do not forget that the health of your skin is very important.
The 1st commandments for sunbathing
Although it does not provide any health benefits, tanning is a pleasure for many people. However, exposing the skin to the sun’s rays without taking the necessary precautions can result in serious health problems. We tell you what the 10 commandments are to do it the right way.
1. You will avoid the hours of greatest radiation
Surely, when you are in the sun, you want to take as much time as it takes to achieve that enviable golden color. However, it is very important to avoid exposing the skin to its radiation when it is in the most perpendicular position to the earth.
According to a review published in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology , exposure to the sun’s rays should be limited, especially between 10 am and 2 pm. If it cannot be avoided, it is advisable to wear clothing to protect the skin, such as hats, long-sleeved shirts and pants.
2. You will use the right sunscreen
Knowing the right sun protection factor (SPF or SPF) for your skin type is one of the most important things to consider in order to sunbathe well. To do this, you must take into account your skin color and if you are sensitive to any specific component.
In addition to this, a publication from the American Cancer Society recommends choosing a broad spectrum sunscreen, that is, one that protects against both type A (UVA) and type B (UVB) ultraviolet rays. Also, it is important that the SPF is not less than 30.
3. You will apply the protector half an hour before sunbathing
As you may have heard several times, applying sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going out in the sun is essential. In this way, the product will have time to absorb into the skin and activate all its protective properties. Don’t skimp on the amount and remember that your skin needs to be dry to be most effective.
4. You will not walk away from your protector
It is forbidden to leave your sunscreen at home! If you want to sunbathe well, you should apply the product every two hours. Although some are oilier than others, the truth is that they all fall off the skin after a while, especially when in contact with water.
5. You will not expose yourself too much
Even if you love sunbathing, you must be very cautious when exposing yourself to its rays. Do not take solar baths for a period greater than 15 minutes and remember that these should not be so often. Sunbathing well does not mean lying on the towel or sitting in a chair for hours. You can have a beautiful tan color by exposing yourself for short intervals during the day.
For example, you can sunbathe for 15 minutes, go in the shade for an hour, and go out into the sun again for 15 more minutes. If you stay in solar radiation for a long time, you run the risk of sunstroke and this is terrible for the skin.
6. You will drink a lot of water
Before, during and after sunbathing, stay hydrated . Drinking water is necessary to avoid dehydration caused by perspiration that occurs when in the sun. Also, if your skin is dry, the sun’s rays are more likely to affect and irritate it. Make sure you have a bottle on hand and have drinks every so often.
7. You will protect your eyes
Another commandment to sunbathe well is to choose good glasses to protect your eyes during your walk to the beach, pool or river. According to a publication from the Mayo Clinic, ultraviolet rays can damage not only the skin of the eyelid, but also the cornea and lens.
Ideally, the crystals will block 99% to 100% of UVA and UVB rays. This will prevent the rays from reaching your eyes and affecting your vision. Keep in mind that the color of the lenses and the degree of darkness have nothing to do with their protection capacity.
8. You will jealously protect your spots, scars and moles
Some people tend to have many freckles and moles that require special care. Moles are formed by the overproduction of melanin and freckles appear from prolonged exposure to the sun. Normally, they are benign, but you should still use sunscreen on them to avoid complications.
When you have sensitive skin, it will be more prone to the appearance of moles and freckles from exposure to the sun. If you notice that they change in color or shape, go immediately to your dermatologist. Another of the skin manifestations that require care are scars, within them are also tattoos. If you expose your scars to the sun, they could get worse and darken.
9. You will exfoliate and hydrate your skin
To maintain healthy skin, you must moisturize and exfoliate it frequently. Hydration will give you healthier and more beautiful skin, while exfoliation will remove all dead cells. Avoid the latter after sunbathing because the skin is more sensitive, but do not forget to always keep it hydrated.
10. You will not abuse your phototype
If you think that because you have dark skin you do not tan easily, do not abuse. You may not see your skin tanned, but the ultraviolet rays penetrate it and can damage it. Don’t overuse bronzers or accelerators if your skin is very fair. Do not forget that this type of complexion is the most sensitive on the scale.
Finally, do not forget to enjoy the summer wisely. That fun and rest do not mean putting the health of your skin at risk. Respect these 10 commandments and you will have beautiful skin and a healthy tan next summer.
