Protect Your Skin with These Sun Safety Tips

This summer, while you enjoy the pool and outdoor fun with your family, it’s important to take a few minutes to protect your skin from the damaging effects of the sun. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, according to the Center for Disease Control, but there are steps you can take to minimize your risk. Here are some sun safety tips.

Who is at risk of skin cancer from sun exposure?

While everyone’s skin can be damaged by the sun, some people are more sensitive to it’s effects and have a higher risk for skin cancer:

• A history of sunburns.
• Exposure to the sun through work and play.
• A lighter natural skin color.
• Skin that burns, freckles, reddens easily, or becomes painful in the sun.
• Blue or green eyes.
• Naturally blond or red hair.
• A personal history of skin cancer.
• A family history of melanoma.

Remember too that small children and babies have more sensitive skin and should be shielded from the sun whenever possible.

How can you protect yourself and your children from the sun?

• Stay in the shade when possible, especially during the midday hours when the sun is at its strongest.
• Wear protective clothing
• Wear hats with brims to shield your face, ears and neck
• Wear sunglasses. Choose styles that wrap around your the sides of your face for maximum protection. Also look for labels that promise protection from both UVA and UVB rays.
• Wear sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher)

How can you get the most protection from sunscreen?

• Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before going outside.
• Don’t spread it too thin. Apply liberally and smooth it into your skin for maximum protection.
• Choose a sunscreen brand that offers UVA and UVB protection or says full spectrum on the bottle.
• Choose the right SPF. SPF 15 is recommended for day to day protection and SPF 30 for prolonged sun exposure. Children should use a higher SPF (SPF35 or more). If you have very sensitive skin, a history of skin cancer, or are taking medication, dermatologists recommend using SPF 50.
• Sunscreen loses its effectiveness over time, so discard bottles after 1-2 years.
• Reapply every two hours, or after getting wet or sweating heavily.
• If using bug spray, apply sunscreen first and then the repellent.

Remember:

Damage from the sun can occur in as little as 15 minutes.

It takes 12 hours for the effects of the sun to be noticeable on the skin. So don’t wait until you think you’re burning to apply sunscreen!

SWIM SCHOOL IN KATY 

Texas Swim Academy is the best swim school near me offering result-oriented swimming lessons in Katy that cater to all ages and abilities. Our well-trained and experienced swimming instructors provide a variety of programs for infants through adulthood. For the little ones, we offer swimming lessons for babies and swimming lessons for toddlers focused on survival swimming skills to build a strong water safety foundation and foster water confidence at a young age. Once your child knows how to swim, our swim lessons for children will help refine techniques and build endurance, as the consistent practice of their swimming skills is an imperative part of becoming a strong swimmer. 

Our adaptive aquatics program is designed for children of all ages and abilities to ensure every child, including children on the autism spectrum, can benefit from these fundamental skills and enjoy the water in a safe and comfortable environment. Adults seeking to improve their swimming prowess or learn how to swim for the first time can enroll in adult swim lessons tailored to their specific goals.

Our swim lessons near me are a convenient and accessible way for you and your family to learn how to swim in a comfortable environment. Our dedicated instructors are passionate about teaching and ensuring your progress in the water. Take a few minutes to view Our Swimmer Stories to learn more about what other families are saying about their experience with Texas Swim Academy. 

Contact us to learn more about our programs or stop by our state-of-the-art swimming facility in Katy to register today. Be sure to follow our Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube pages for important news, updates, and swimming safety tips, and read our blog to keep up-to-date with important information on water safety and proper swimming lessons.