Exercise Sun Safety and Protect your Skin!

by | Dermatology, First Aid and Self-Care, Healthy Living, Wellness

exercise sun safety

Anytime we are out in the sun without adequate protection we are putting ourselves at risk of sun burn. We want you to go outside and enjoy your hobbies and our beautiful natural natural landscape, by using at five S’s for sun safety you can have fun and stay safe.

THE FIVE S’S OF SUN SAFETY:

  1. SLIP on a t-shirt
  2. SLOP on SPF 30+ broad spectrum UVA sunscreen
  3. SLAP on a broad brimmed hat
  4. SLIDE on quality sunglasses
  5. SHADE from the sun whenever possible

1. SLIP ON A T-SHIRT

  • Cover as much skin as possible with clothing
  • Shoulders are most susceptible so they should be covered
  • Clothes are now rated based on UPF protection – get one with a high UPF rating.
  • By wearing UV protective clothing you give yourself the best protection from Sun burn

2. SLOP ON SPF 30+ SUNSCREEN

  • Learn how to properly apply sunscreen and which one works best for your skin
  • Sunscreen is an aid, you still need to practice sun safety
  • Don’t simply rely on sunscreen alone to protect your skin
  • Sun Protection Factor (SPF) 30 or above is the ideal sun block. Get one that is water resistant
  • Make sure it carries a UVA symbol (or a minimum 4 star)
  • Store in an accessible, cool place and check the expiry date
  • Apply it generously to dry clean exposed skin
  • Apply 20 minutes before going outdoors and once again when outdoors
  • All sunscreens should be reapplied at least every 2 hours. More if you’re sweating a lot or have just had a swim.
  • For your lips use an SPF 30+ lip balm

3. SLAP ON A BROAD BRIMMED HAT

  • Wear a hat that is big enough to protect the the face, neck and ears. A legionnaires hat or bucket style hat or a wide brim hat are the most effective
  • Choose hats made from highly rated UPF rated fabric as these will provide the best protection. 

4. SLIDE ON A GOOD SUNGLASSES

  • Good quality sunglasses are essential to protect your eyes for the Suns UV radiations.
  • Look for sunglasses with high quality lenses that cover the whole eyes. Make sure they are well fitting. 
  • Sunglasses label with a high EPF (which rages from 1-10) will provide best protection. Look for the label, don’t fall for expensive fashionable glasses. 

5. SHADE FROM THE SUN WHEN POSSIBLE

  • Shade provides a good barrier between our skin and the sun
  • Seek shade whenever you can, especially at the hottest times of the day when UV penetration is strongest
  • Keep young children and babies in the shade all the time as they have highly sensitive skins. 
  • Combine all five S’s to maximise your safety in the sun.