The upcoming summer season is about to begin in just a few weeks. This period of fun and joy also comes with significant risks tied to negative behavior. Here is a guide on how to stay safe while enjoying your time in the sun.
As the school year winds down, many eagerly anticipate the vibrant arrival of summer: the delightful warm weather, the shining sunshine, and the exciting memories waiting to be created. Summer is a time for relaxation and rejuvenation. There are numerous activities to partake in during this season, such as beach outings, socializing with friends, attending summer camps, or simply savoring the flexibility of a less hectic schedule. Summer offers opportunities to make lasting memories and revel in the freedom it brings. The long, sunny days create the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, barbecues, and late-night gatherings.
However, the intense sunlight during summer, particularly along the coast, can lead to negative consequences. To fully enjoy the summer experiences, it is essential for everyone to prioritize safety and sun protection. The brightness of the sun should never be underestimated due to its direct impact on the Earth and the high temperatures it brings. The UV index varies worldwide, ranging from zero to twenty. Failure to recognize the power of the sun can result in severe conditions such as sunburn, skin cancer, eye damage, premature skin aging, and more.
In order to safeguard themselves from the sun’s harmful effects, individuals should stay hydrated, wear sunglasses, take breaks in the shade, and most importantly, use sunscreen with a minimum SPF of thirty. Maddie Farrell ’27 admited, “I often forget to apply sunscreen, which leads to my skin getting red and dry during summer.” Similarly, Mia Taylor ’27 shared, “Whenever I get sunburned, my skin becomes extremely painful and I struggle to find relief.” The use of physical blockers like titanium dioxide or zinc oxide, which sit on the skin surface and deflect UV rays, is crucial. Regularly reapplying sunscreen throughout the day helps reduce the risks of skin cancer, redness, premature aging, and other issues during the hot summer months. Sunscreen should be a pivotal part of everyone’s skincare routine due to its protective properties.
Wearing sunscreen not only minimizes the risk of sun-related damages but also shields the skin from harmful UV rays. These rays, emitted by the sun, are invisible energy waves that penetrate the skin, leading to premature wrinkles and sunburn. Different types of UV rays, such as UVA and UVB, trigger varying reactions, such as wrinkles and redness. Sunscreen plays a vital role in combating the harmful effects of extreme UV rays during summer. It is especially important for teenagers and adolescents to use sunscreen regularly. During youth, the skin is sensitive and requires protection to avoid long-term damage.
Excessive sun exposure without protection can result in painful sunburn and elevate the chances of future skin cancer. Outdoor activities are essential for children as they connect them with nature and provide essential vitamin D. The sun is a valuable source of vitamin D, which is crucial for calcium absorption, cell function regulation, osteoporosis prevention, and more. However, protection from sun damage is equally important. The harmful UV rays emitted by the sun can have detrimental effects on the body and increase the risk of long-term illnesses. The regular use of sunscreen aids in preserving the skin’s health and appearance, especially in adolescents. Whether it’s a cloudy day or a sunny afternoon, applying sunscreen and reapplying it as needed will shield your skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Initiating the habit of using sunscreen is a simple yet effective step towards maintaining long-term skin health and overall well-being.