Sun Safety on the Water: Top 5 Tips from a Board-Certified Dermatologist

Your skin is your body’s largest organ. It is important to keep it safe and protect it from harsh UV rays, especially in the water. Water and sand reflect UV rays, making you even more susceptible to sunburn and sun damage. Overexposure to the sun can lead to many health complications, ranging from minor sunburns to life-threatening melanoma. This is why it is important to understand and practice sun safety while you are out on the water. In this blog, we are going to discuss five tips that you should look to practice while you are on the water to keep your skin safe.

5 Tips to Keep Your Skin Safe

• Avoid Peak Sun Hours

Staying out of the sun during peak sun hours is a great way to keep your skin protected from high UV levels. During these peak hours, the UV rating can get up to a rating of 8,9,10, and even 11 on some of the hottest days. These levels of radiation can be extremely damaging to the skin.

• Treat Your Sunburns

If you find yourself with a sunburn, make sure you treat it properly and avoid further sun exposure. This will ensure that your burn heals properly and that your skin gets back to feeling happy and healthy.

• Utilize SPF

Sunscreen provides your skin with the protection that it needs to avoid sun damage. With SPF, the higher the SPF rating, the more protection against sunburn that your skin is receiving. Generally, you want sunscreen with an SPF rating of at least 30.

• Cover Your Body

While you are on the water, try to wear long sleeve shirts and pants. Plenty of clothing brands and styles provide coverage from the sun with the breathability needed to feel comfortable in the heat.

• Get a Routine Skin Exam

Getting a routine skin exam is a great way to make sure that your skin is healthy and on the right track. A skin exam can spot any issues that may be arising in the skin, like skin cancer.

Stay Safe in the Sun

Keeping your skin safe is something that you should take seriously. Follow these steps while you are on the water to ensure that your skin is protected. If you are interested in learning more about sun safety or are interested in getting a routine skin exam, Keys Dermatology is the perfect place to go. The doctors at Keys Dermatology can provide you with world-class care and insight to ensure your skin is healthy. Contact us today at 305.664.8828 or visit us online at keysdermatology.com to request an appointment with us.