Sun and Sunnies: Tips for protecting your skin while being active outdoors

Earlier this month I co-hosted a Sun and Sunnies event with Elaine Yu at Bloomingdale's in the Short Hills mall. As Elaine shared summer must-haves this summer I revealed ways to protect your skin from the sun while being active outdoors.  Every skin type is susceptible to harmful UV exposure. Look out for questionable ingredients that include oxybenzone and retinyl palmitate, these ingredients have been linked to hormone disruption. With the holiday weekend, my tips below will come in handy if you are active or just soaking up some sun! 

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Protecting Your Skin from the Sun

Tips while working out in the sun

• Add a thick layer of sunscreen to your forehead if you are being extremely active. 
• When out and about opt for moisturizers for the face and body making sure it has an SPF in it.  
• Plan on applying sunscreen 30 mins before heading out and make sure to apply liberally everywhere. 
• Make sure to reapply every 2 hours and every hour if you are sweating. 
• With the summer here eating foods rich in antioxidants help to protect the skin from sun damage. 
• Use water resistant sunscreen or sports sunscreen, this is best for sweaty activities.

Try selecting protective gear

• If you plan on playing a sport or activity and will be in the sun a long time this is key. 
• Cotton offers the least amount of protection, keep that in mind when selecting looks for the beach. 
• Nylon/nylon-polyester blend is the best option when it comes to fabrics.
• Clothing should have UPF (ultraviolet protection factor) woven in. 
• The higher the UPF the better the protection. 
• stick to clothing with a tight weave.

Think about your eyes and protect them!

• When your eyes are over exposed to UV rays that can lead to Cataracts or Ocular Melanoma (an eye tumor)
• Opt for sunglasses with UV and UVB protection