More Than Sunscreen – What’s Your Sun Safety Strategy?

Today is Melanoma Monday and my thoughts turn, once again, to the importance of sun safety. On this blog, in the media and on the drugstore shelves, there is a huge focus on sunscreen. And sunscreen is a vital part of an effective sun protection strategy; but it is just that. One part.

To prevent sun damage – both health-wise and from a cosmetic perspective – you must incorporate a number of other techniques.

• Avoid sun exposure by opting for the shade. Beach umbrellas are your friend!
• Choose the safest times for sun exposure. This means avoiding the sun between 10am and 2pm when its strength is most intense.
• Wear sun protective gear. This includes wide brim hats and long sleeve shirts. Don’t worry – this doesn’t mean that you need to sacrifice fashion! J. Crew is my personal favourite for UPF rash guards for adults, while Gap has cute options for kids. Plus, there are a number of luxury retailers that offer high UPF rash guards and protective sun wear from designers like Tory Burch and Nanette Lepore.

Sunscreen is absolutely critical. This means applying an SPF of at least 30 on a daily basis and at least 50 on days spent in the sun. But think about it this way – sunscreen is an insurance policy. It is a safeguard but it is by no means a license to lie in the sun. So lather up but also follow these other sun safety tips to protect yourself and your family.

Photo courtesy of AAD.org