Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, just as it is well with your soul. (The Third Letter of John: Verse 2)
Slowing down your pace, laying down your burdens, and receiving the gift of rest through the presence of God in the ordinary activities of summertime are some of the gifts of summertime. Basking in the warm glow of the sun can make people feel good in the short term, but the cumulative effects of sun exposure have long-term side effects. Sun exposure puts people at increased risk of cellular damage, early wrinkling, age spots and skin cancer, including melanoma. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) offers some helpful tips for avoiding sunburn and for selecting and applying sunscreen.
Tips for avoiding sunburn
Whenever possible, avoid being in the midday sun.
A white t-shirt worn while swimming does not protect the skin; sunscreen must be applied under the t-shirt.
Wear a broad brim hat and sunglasses with UV protection.
Stay in the shade whenever possible.
Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect your skin, if you can’t avoid being in the sun.
Tips for selecting a sunscreen
Pick a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UV rays and has an SPF of 30 or higher. Pick a waterproof brand if you will be swimming or sweating.
Apply the sunscreen 30 minutes before outdoor activities (for best results) so the sunscreen can be absorbed by the skin and is less likely to wash off with perspiration.
Apply sunscreen every 2-3 hours while in the sun and after swimming or strenuous exercise. Sunscreen effectiveness is affected by swimming, sweat, wind, humidity and altitude.
Use lip balm or cream that has SPF of 30 or higher to protect lips.
Use a water based sunscreen if you have oily skin or are prone to acne.
Be aware of the expiration date because some sunscreen ingredients might degrade over time.
Ann Gornik
RN, MSN, FCN, Advocate Parish Nurse
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