Why Wearing Sunscreen Is One of the Smartest Things You Can Do This Summer

Why Wearing Sunscreen Is One of the Smartest

Things You Can Do This Summer

Sasha Bush

The Ashland Beacon

Summer is a time for vacations, pool days, beach trips, backyard barbecues, and enjoying the outdoors. While spending time in the sunshine can boost your mood and help your body produce vitamin D, too much exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can damage your skin. That's why wearing sunscreen should be part of your daily summer routine.

Sunscreen Protects Your Skin

The sun gives off two types of UV rays that affect your skin: UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays penetrate deep into the skin and contribute to premature aging, including wrinkles and age spots. UVB rays are the main cause of sunburn. Both types of rays can damage skin cells and increase the risk of skin cancer.

A broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect against both UVA and UVB rays, reducing the amount of damage your skin receives while you're outside.

It Helps Prevent Sunburn

Most people have experienced the discomfort of a sunburn at least once. Red, painful skin can make even simple activities uncomfortable, and severe sunburns can cause blistering, peeling, and dehydration.

Applying sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher can significantly lower your chances of getting sunburned when used correctly. It's especially important if you're spending extended periods outdoors.

Sunscreen Reduces the Risk of Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer, but many cases can be prevented by protecting your skin from excessive UV exposure. Regular sunscreen use is one of the simplest and most effective ways to reduce your risk.

Even if you don't burn easily or have a darker skin tone, your skin can still be damaged by UV rays. Everyone benefits from wearing sunscreen.

It Helps Keep Skin Looking Healthy

Sun exposure doesn't just affect your skin today—it also has long-term effects. Frequent UV exposure breaks down collagen and elastin, the proteins that keep your skin firm and smooth. Over time, this can lead to wrinkles, fine lines, uneven skin tone, and dark spots.

Using sunscreen consistently helps maintain healthier-looking skin and can slow many visible signs of aging caused by the sun.

Sunscreen Isn't Just for the Beach

Many people only think about sunscreen when they're heading to the beach or pool, but UV rays reach your skin during everyday activities like walking the dog, gardening, driving, or eating lunch outside.

Cloudy days don't provide complete protection either. Up to 80% of UV rays can pass through clouds, making sunscreen just as important even when the sun isn't shining brightly.

How to Use Sunscreen Effectively

To get the most protection from your sunscreen:

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

Apply it about 15 to 30 minutes before going outside.

Use enough to cover all exposed skin, including your ears, neck, hands, and feet.

Reapply every two hours, or more often if you're swimming or sweating.

Don't forget lip balm with SPF to protect your lips.

Additional Sun Safety Tips

While sunscreen is essential, it's even more effective when combined with other sun-safe habits:

Wear sunglasses that block UV rays.

Choose a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and neck.

Wear lightweight clothing that covers your skin when possible.

Seek shade during the strongest sunlight, typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

Enjoy Summer Safely

Summer is meant to be enjoyed, and protecting your skin doesn't have to be difficult. Making sunscreen part of your daily routine takes only a few minutes but can have lasting benefits for your health. By protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, you'll reduce your risk of sunburn, help prevent premature aging, and lower your chances of developing skin cancer.

This summer, remember that sunscreen isn't just another item in your beach bag—it's an investment in your long-term health. A few minutes spent applying sunscreen today can help keep your skin healthier for years to come.