A day at the beach is a perfect way to enjoy the outdoors, but it’s essential to remember that the sun's rays can be both a friend and a foe.
Whether you're soaking up the sun or diving into the waves, protecting yourself from sun exposure will help you make the most of your beach day without suffering the consequences later. Here are some key sun safety tips to keep your skin safe while having fun in the sun!
1. Choose the Right Sunscreen
Sunscreen is your first line of defense to prevent sunburn and skin damage caused by the sun’s UV rays, even on cloudy days. Look for a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays and has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
For maximum protection, apply at least one ounce (about a shot glass full) of sunscreen to cover your entire body. Don’t forget the often-missed spots like the ears, tops of the feet, and the back of the neck.
Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or more frequently if you’ve been swimming or sweating. Even water-resistant formulas can wear off after a while, so it’s crucial to stay on top of reapplying.
2. Cover Up with Protective Clothing
In addition to sunscreen, wearing protective clothing is a great way to guard yourself against sunburn. Consider wearing UV-protective swimwear that offers an extra layer of defense against harmful rays. Long-sleeved, lightweight shirts are a good option for staying cool and protected at the same time.
Don’t forget about accessories like wide-brimmed hats and UV-protective sunglasses. A hat will shield your face, neck, and shoulders, while polarized sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun’s harsh glare and harmful UV rays.
3. Focus on Hydration
A sun-safe beach day isn’t just about protecting your skin—it’s also about taking care of your body from the inside. Heat and sun exposure can quickly lead to dehydration, so it's vital to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Avoid drinks that can dehydrate you, such as sugary sodas and alcoholic beverages. Bring a large cooler filled with ice-cold water bottles, and make it a habit to take frequent sips, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Staying hydrated not only helps keep you cool but also prevents heat-related illnesses like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
4. Plan for Peak Sun Hours
The sun is at its strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., which means this is when you’re most at risk for sunburn and overexposure. If possible, plan your beach trip for the early morning or late afternoon hours to minimize sun damage.
If you’re staying at the beach all day, make sure to take extra precautions during these peak hours by applying sunscreen more frequently, wearing protective clothing, and taking shade breaks (more on that later).
5. Watch Out for Reflected Sunlight
While it might be tempting to think that a little cloud cover or a cooler day at the beach means less sun exposure, don’t be fooled. UV rays can reflect off surfaces like sand and water, intensifying the amount of sun hitting your skin. That means you could still get sunburned even if you’re under partial shade or the sun isn’t directly overhead.
To combat reflected sunlight, stick to your sunscreen routine, wear sunglasses, and be mindful of how long you're exposed to both direct and indirect rays.
6. Bring the Right Umbrella
Selecting the right beach umbrella is essential for ensuring proper sun protection during your day at the beach. The beachBUB umbrella system stands out as an excellent option, offering a UPF rating of 50+, the highest available, which blocks around 98% of harmful UV rays.
Not only does it provide superior protection from the sun, but it also meets the new ASTM F3681 standard for wind resistance, ensuring it stays securely anchored even in windy conditions, giving you peace of mind throughout the day. With the beachBUB umbrella, you won’t need to worry about constantly readjusting or reapplying sunscreen in shaded areas, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time outdoors while staying safe from sun exposure.
Investing in a high-quality umbrella like this ensures lasting protection and comfort, making it a must-have for any sun-smart beach outing. Shop our umbrella systems today!