Enjoying the Summer Sun without the Burn

Though I enjoy the long days and warm weather associated with summer, one thing I do not look forward to is the increased risk of sunburn, especially as a person with pale skin. Even though this is not as much of an environmental issue as many of the topics discussed in other articles, it does represent a potential health issue when trying to learn more about and enjoy the outdoors. I have in the past used a lot of sunscreen, especially those with the highest SPF rating I could find, thinking that this was the ultimate solution and would make me immune to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) radiation. The truth is that there are mixed opinions on the benefits and harmful effects of using sunscreen; therefore, it should only be used as a last resort.

To reduce exposure to UV radiation while also enjoying the outdoors, there are several options to consider prior to applying sunscreen, some of which are more practical than others:

• Cover up! A hat with a wide brim not only protects your face and neck but also cools you down. It is interesting how good a little added shade on your face can make you feel. A few years ago I also purchased an extremely thin jacket from Patagonia (a company that promotes repair, reuse, and recycling of their products) that has been very effective at reducing UV exposure on my arms while not making me too warm. And don't forget a pair of 100% UV protection sunglasses!

• Avoid Peak Exposure Times. I often see runners out between Noon and 2:00 pm on some of the hottest days of the summer and wonder how they cope with the sun and heat. It is recommended to either go out before 10:30 am or after 4:00 pm to avoid the most direct exposure. My family and I try to limit our beach visits to outside of these hours, though there are times when this is not possible.

• Make Shade. If you must go out during peak hours, investing in a high-quality beach canopy or large umbrella to sit beneath will not only reduce sun exposure but will also save you a lot of money in terms of health expenses in the future. Several decent products can be found on Amazon.

Given the above suggestions, there are still times when UV exposure during prime times of the day cannont be avoided and sun screen is needed. Consider the following when selecting a brand and SPF rating::

• Select sunscreen with SPF between 15 and 50+. Even if you choose a sunscreen with an SPF rating above 50, the sun can still damage your skin even if you don't burn.

• Avoid any sunscreen (and creams) containing retinyl palmitate, retinol or vitamin A, as these can actually increase your chances of developing a skin lesion or tumor.

• Avoid any sunscreen containing oxybenzone as it can disrupt the hormone system. This and other chemicals have been found to be easily absorbed by the skin for up to several days beyond initial application.

• Visit https://www.ewg.org/sunscreen/report/executive-summary/ for a list of chemicals commonly found in sunscreen that have not been sufficiently tested and, therefore, should be avoided. A lot of additional information is also available at this website.

• Look for sunscreen containing zinc oxide, 3 percent avobenzone or Mexoryl SX, as all three are important in blocking harmful UV radiation. Zinc oxide has been tested by the FDA and is generally accepted as safe and effective.

• Do not use sunscreen that contains bug repellant. Apply a separate bug repellant for this purpose.

• Avoid sunscreen sprays as the mist can be very harmful to inhale.

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Helpful Hint

Try to reduce sun exposure during peak times as much as possible this summer. When purchasing sun screen, attempt to find a brand that addresses as many of the concerns listed above as possible. And feel free to add a comment if you have a brand suggestion!