Sun Protection in the Summer

Mythili Pai, Reporter

As the weather is starting to get warmer and the school year comes to an end, there is an important topic that applies to everyone: sun protection. 

Many tend to overlook the benefits of having good protection against the sun no matter what the weather app says. People think that you only need to use it during the hot and humid summer months but the reality is that you need to make sure you have a barrier from the sun at all times. 

Ways to protect yourself from the sun.

  1. Sunscreen – wearing sunscreen is the best way to make sure you aren’t getting any bad side effects from being in the sunlight. A common misconception is that you need to only wear it when you’re outside, but the truth is that wearing sunscreen (especially on your face) at all times no matter the season is crucial. 
  2. Hats – Wearing a hat is perfect for extra coverage during the peak months of summer and paired with sunscreen gives you double the protection. It can reduce your chances of getting skin cancer while also helping with the irritating glare from the sun.
  3. Shaded areas – If you have to go out during the peak hours of the heat then finding shaded areas to sit near is important. Not only does it protect you from the heat, but it also will make you less tired and let you cool off. 
  4. Covering with clothing – Wearing clothes that cover your skin from the direct rays of sun is a good way of protecting yourself from the risks of skin cancer and other diseases that are correlated to the sun. It may make you feel hotter, but it’s a good option to help you in the long run.
  5. Wear sunglasses – Many may think wearing sunglasses is more for the look, but it can actually be a great way to shield one of your most used parts of your body – your eyes- from the piercing UVA rays. They are almost 100% effective in helping your eyes when it comes to sun protection.