Believe it or not, summer is around the corner. Recent temperatures might suggest otherwise, but if the experts are to be believed, it won’t be long until we finally turn the corner. Luckily, this is going to impact the whole country, including Scotland!
While this might mean the return of paddling pools, deck chairs, BBQs, and other classics, it also presents a risk. Most associate sun-related conditions with our holidays overseas, but these risks aren’t isolated. In fact, there’s just as potential at home as any medical expert or health insurer would testify.
Bearing this in mind, in preparation for the warmer months, read on and find some key suggestions that you should look at to protect your body.
Cover up
This one seems like an obvious solution, but you’d be surprised at how many people still don’t do it. No matter where you are in the world, you need to ensure that your skin is covered up when the sun is beaming down.
This is doubly important if you’re spending a prolonged period outside. Remember, UV rays can penetrate through some types of clothing, so if you’re in the sun for a while, wear light, loose-fitting clothes that will protect your skin.
Similarly, if you’re using a paddling pool, just remember that water won’t “cover” you sufficiently. In fact, it heightens the chances of sunburn.
Stay hydrated
When the weather is hot, you sweat more. As a result, you need to make sure that you’re drinking plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
This is especially important if you’re exercising in the heat. Remember, when you sweat, you’re not just losing water; you’re also losing electrolytes. As such, it’s a good idea to drink sports drinks or eat foods that are high in electrolytes, such as bananas.
On a side note, “hydration” doesn’t involve a trip to the nearest bar! Without trying to be party-poopers, remember that alcohol will have the opposite effect and make your battle against the sun more difficult.
Avoid the peak hours
The sun is at its strongest between 10 am and 4 pm. As such, if you can, try to avoid spending extended periods outside during these hours.
If you can’t avoid being outdoors, make sure to take the necessary precautions. In other words, everything we have mentioned thus far.
Use sunscreen
This one is a bit of a no-brainer, but it’s essential nonetheless. Make sure to apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
And don’t forget to reapply it every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or swimming.
An important point to note is that if the sun appears to hide behind clouds for a few hours, it doesn’t mean that you should be letting your guard down. On the contrary, the UV rays are still present, and this is one of the easiest opportunities to succumb to all of the risks that the sun presents.